🧠ap psychology review

Pavlov's classical conditioning theory

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examWritten by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025

Definition

Pavlov's classical conditioning theory is a learning process where an organism forms associations between stimuli and responses. It suggests that behavior can be modified through the pairing of a neutral stimulus with an unconditioned stimulus to elicit a conditioned response.

Theoretical Perspectives

Pavlov's classical conditioning theory is grounded in behaviorism, which asserts that behaviors can be learned through the association of stimuli. It emphasizes observable behavior over internal mental states.

Study And Research Findings

Ivan Pavlov's foundational research involved conditioning dogs to salivate at the sound of a bell, demonstrating how a neutral stimulus can acquire the capacity to elicit a conditioned response when paired with an unconditioned stimulus.

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