Final Answer:
Sensitization is a form of learning characterized by an increased response to a stimulus over time, in contrast to habituation, where the response diminishes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sensitization is a type of learning that involves an amplified response to a stimulus upon repeated exposure. In this process, the organism becomes more responsive or reactive to the stimulus, showing an increased sensitivity.
This is in stark contrast to habituation, where the response to a stimulus decreases with repeated exposure. Sensitization and habituation are two fundamental forms of non-associative learning, influencing how organisms adapt to their environment.
During sensitization, the nervous system undergoes changes that heighten the reaction to a particular stimulus. This heightened sensitivity is often a result of the activation of neural pathways that amplify the response, leading to increased arousal or responsiveness.
This type of learning is crucial for survival, as it helps organisms prioritize and respond more effectively to potentially threatening or important stimuli in their surroundings.
Unlike habituation, which involves a decrease in responsiveness to a stimulus due to repeated exposure without any significant consequences, sensitization enhances the organism's ability to detect and respond to relevant stimuli.
Understanding the mechanisms underlying sensitization provides valuable insights into how organisms adapt to their environment and modulate their behavior based on the significance of external stimuli.