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How did behaviorism affect research on the mind? Outline the first classical conditioning and operant conditioning experiments.

User Codr
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Final answer:

Behaviorism had a significant impact on research on the mind through classical conditioning and operant conditioning.

Step-by-step explanation:

Behaviorism had a significant impact on the research on the mind. It focused on studying overt behaviors and downplayed the importance of unobservable mental processes. Classical conditioning and operant conditioning are two key experiments that illustrate the effects of behaviorism.

Classical Conditioning

Classical conditioning, exemplified by Pavlov's dog experiments, involves learning to associate events or stimuli that happen together. Pavlov conditioned dogs to associate a sound stimulus with food, causing them to salivate at the sound alone. This type of conditioning explores how reflexive responses can be mapped to different stimuli through association.

Operant Conditioning

Operant conditioning, demonstrated by B.F. Skinner's experiments, focuses on modifying behavior through consequences. Skinner used a Skinner box to condition rats to associate pushing a lever with receiving food. This type of learning involves continually modifying behavior through positive and negative reinforcement.

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