Question

A stimulus that does not initially elicit a response in an organism is a(n) _____ a. unconditioned stimulus b. neutral stimulus c. conditioned stimulus d. unconditioned response

Short answer

The correct answer is b. neutral stimulus. Because at first, it doesn't cause a response.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Terms

In this step, identify the meaning of each answer choice. An unconditioned stimulus is something that naturally and automatically triggers a response. A neutral stimulus is something that initially does not trigger a response. A conditioned stimulus is a formerly neutral stimulus that, after association with an unconditioned stimulus, triggers a conditioned response. An unconditioned response is an unlearned response that occurs naturally in response to an unconditioned stimulus.

Apply the Definitions

Reflect on the question: 'A stimulus that does not initially elicit a response in an organism is a.' Given the definition, it implies that initially we are dealing with a stimulus that does not have an impact or cause a response. Therefore, based on the definitions from the previous step, the answer would be a neutral stimulus.

Key concepts

Neutral Stimulus

In classical conditioning, a neutral stimulus is an element of the environment that initially does not produce a specific response or reaction. For instance, if you hear a bell ring and feel no particular emotion or impulse, the bell is acting as a neutral stimulus. The key point is that it does not trigger any meaningful behavior at first.
However, in the context of classical conditioning, a neutral stimulus can eventually evolve in its role. Through a process called conditioning, this stimulus can start to elicit a response. This transformation occurs through repeated associations with another type of stimulus.

• Starts with no specific response.
• Can become meaningful through association.
• Initial step in forming conditioned responses.

Unconditioned Stimulus

An unconditioned stimulus is one that naturally and automatically triggers a response without any prior learning needed. This type of stimulus is part of our inherent biology and influences our automatic behaviors. For example, the smell of food for many people may lead to salivation. Here, the food is an unconditioned stimulus because it instinctively triggers the response of salivation.
In the process of classical conditioning, the unconditioned stimulus holds substantial power. It forms the basis of learning by pairing with a previously neutral stimulus.

• Triggers natural responses.
• Does not require learned behavior.
• Key element in classical conditioning.

Conditioned Stimulus

Once a neutral stimulus has been paired repeatedly with an unconditioned stimulus, it can become a conditioned stimulus. This means that it now triggers a response even on its own. The conditioned response is often similar to the response originally triggered by the unconditioned stimulus.
For example, if you hear a bell every time before you are given your favorite snack, eventually the sound of the bell alone might cause you to feel hungry. Here, the bell, which was originally a neutral stimulus, has become a conditioned stimulus.

• Starts as a neutral stimulus.
• Becomes effective after associations.
• Causes learned responses.

Unconditioned Response

An unconditioned response is a natural reaction to an unconditioned stimulus. This type of response occurs without the need for any training. It's an automatic reaction to stimuli that are significant for our survival or well-being. For instance, pulling your hand back after touching something hot is an unconditioned response to the painful stimulus of heat.
Understanding unconditioned responses is crucial in classical conditioning. It helps in illustrating how reflexive behaviors can be associated with new stimuli.

• Occurs naturally and automatically.
• Triggered by unconditioned stimuli.
• Forms the basis for learning new associations.