Read Learning and Habituation
A focused NSEB read for the learning and habituation pattern. Learn the linked concept, then apply it in the source questions.
Living-system questions are solved by matching a structure or organism to its function, process and stated condition.
Learning and Habituation
Repeated harmless touch reduces turtle withdrawal. Habituation is a simple form of non-associative learning in which repeated exposure to a harmless stimulus causes a progressive decline in response. The turtle initially withdraws its head after touch, but repeated touching produces less and less withdrawal. No reward, punishment, or association with a second stimulus is involved.
Latent inhibition
Repeatedly presenting a neutral conditioned stimulus without the unconditioned stimulus reduces attention or associability when later learning begins. Pre-exposure can slow new association formation without turning the cue into a conditioned inhibitor.
Recognise harmless-stimulus habituation
Sparrows initially flee the nearby person, then gradually stop responding when her presence is repeated without harm, reward or punishment. That progressive decline in response to an inconsequential stimulus is habituation: non-associative learning, not conditioning. Choose B.
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- ✓Repeated harmless touch reduces turtle withdrawal
- ✓Repeated harmless exposure can produce habituation without reward or punishment.
Read the conditions in the stem carefully and use the stated model, labels, or assumptions before choosing an answer.
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