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Difference Between Classical and Operant Conditioning | 8 Major Differences Explained | General Psychology

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Difference between Classical and Operant Conditioning

➦ Classical conditioning and operant conditioning are two fundamental concepts in the field of behavioral psychology, both describing how learning occurs through associations between stimuli and responses.

➦ They were initially developed by Ivan Pavlov and B.F. Skinner, respectively.

Classical Conditioning:

➦ Classical conditioning involves learning by associating two different stimuli. It’s a process where a neutral stimulus becomes associated with a meaningful stimulus and acquires the capacity to elicit a similar response.

Operant Conditioning:

➦ Operant conditioning is a type of learning where behavior is strengthened or weakened by its consequences. It involves learning through the consequences of voluntary behavior.

Difference between Classical Conditioning and Operant Conditioning

Classical Conditioning

Operant Conditioning 

1.  Classical Conditioning was  firstly described by a Russian physiologist Ivan Pavlov.

1. Operant Conditioning was  firstly described by an American physiologist B.F Skinner.

2.      Classical conditioning is a process of learning which alters an individual’s behavior in relation to various internal or external stimuli .

2.      Operant conditioning is a process of learning which alters an individual’s behavior in relation to rewards and punishment.
3.  Classical Conditioning is also called  Pavlovian or respondent conditioning

3.      Operant Conditioning is also called  instrumental  conditioning.
4.       Classical conditioning involves associating between an involuntary response and a stimulus.

4.      Operant conditioning involves  associating between a voluntary behavior and a consequence.
5.       In classical conditioning the term reinforcement means Conditioned Stimulus (bell) is followed by an Unconditioned Stimulus(Food) and the strengthening the behavior. 5.      In Operating conditioning the term reinforcement means reward which depends upon the proper response of the organism such as food.
6.      In classical  conditioning, the learner is not rewarded with incentives.

6.      In operant conditioning, the learner is also rewarded with incentives.
7.       In classical conditioning animal’s behavior is elicited by light, bell , food ,etc .Salivation was the involuntary response initiated by a stimulus.

7.      In operant conditioning the reactions  came from the animal’s own wish , so it is voluntary response.
8.      For e.g : Theory of classical conditioning is useful in treatment of phobias, treatment of behavior problem, study of sensory capacity, etc 8. Theory of operant conditioning is useful in treatment of behavior problems, motivating employees in organization through incentives and rewards, removing the neagtive behaviors and enhancing the positive behaviors through punishment and rewards.

Difference between Classical Conditioning and Operant Conditioning

References 

  • Testbook. (2023a, June 19). Learn the difference between classical and operant conditioning. Testbook. https://testbook.com/key-differences/difference-between-classical-and-operant-conditioning
  • Choosing Therapy. (2024, January 15). Classical vs. operant conditioning: What is the difference? https://www.choosingtherapy.com/classical-vs-operant-conditioning/

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