Final answer:
Instrumental learning in advertising refers to creating associations between a product and positive outcomes, like happiness or success, as seen in car commercials featuring attractive models to make the car seem more desirable.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question refers to advertising and the instrumental learning method, which is also known as operant conditioning. It involves using rewards or punishments to increase or decrease the likelihood of a specific behavior. For instance, a magazine advertisement might show a person looking happy and successful after using a particular product, suggesting that you too can achieve happiness and success if you use the product. This type of advertisement aims to create a positive association with the product through the rewards of happiness and success.
One commonly cited commercial that applies this method is a car ad that features an attractive model next to the car. The presence of the model creates an association of the car with attractiveness and desirability. The underlying message is if you buy the car, you are also buying into the lifestyle and appeal that comes with it. This is a direct application of associative learning in advertising.
Advertising executives use this approach to subtly influence consumer behavior by associating their products with positive experiences or ideals. Whether it's an advertisement for a car, a beverage, or a new piece of technology, the goal is to link the product with a positive outcome in the mind of the consumer.