---
title: "Higher-Order Conditioning — AP Psych Definition & Examples"
description: "Higher-order conditioning is when an established conditioned stimulus trains a new neutral stimulus, no US needed. Learn how AP Psych tests it vs. generalization."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/higher-order-conditioning"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Psychology"
---

# Higher-Order Conditioning — AP Psych Definition & Examples

## Definition

Higher-order conditioning (also known as second-order conditioning) involves establishing a conditioned response using a conditioned stimulus instead of an unconditioned stimulus.

## Related Study Guides

- [4.2 Classical Conditioning ](/ap-psych-revised/unit-4/classical-conditioning/study-guide/QGn54mzLKcXn3LKcabkL)

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Conditioned Response (CR)](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/conditioned-response-cr): A learned response to previously neutral but now conditioned stimulus. Like salivating at bell sound because it has been associated with food before.
- [Unconditioned Response (UR)](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/unconditioned-response-ur): An automatic natural response to a stimulus. Like salivating at the sight or smell of food.
- [Conditioned Stimulus (CS)](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/conditioned-stimulus-cs): A previously neutral stimulus that, after becoming associated with the unconditioned stimulus, eventually triggers a conditioned response. Like bell sound triggering salivation because it has been linked with food.