Differentiate between classical and instrumental conditioning?

Classical conditioning is a type of learning in which a neutral stimulus becomes associated with a meaningful stimulus and produces a response. This type of conditioning involves pairing a neutral stimulus with an unconditioned stimulus to create a conditioned response. For example, in Pavlov's famous experiment, a bell (neutral stimulus) was paired with food (unconditioned stimulus) to create a conditioned response of salivation in dogs.

Instrumental conditioning, on the other hand, is a type of learning in which behavior is strengthened or weakened based on the consequences that follow it. This type of conditioning involves the use of reinforcement or punishment to shape behavior. For example, if a rat receives a food reward every time it presses a lever, it will learn to press the lever more frequently.

In summary, classical conditioning involves the association of stimuli to produce a response, while instrumental conditioning involves the use of reinforcement or punishment to shape behavior.

Classical Conditioning (Pavlovian Conditioning):

- Unconditioned Stimulus (US): A naturally occurring stimulus that elicits an unconditioned response.
- Unconditioned Response (UR): An automatic, unlearned response to the US.
- Conditioned Stimulus (CS): A neutral stimulus that, through repeated pairing with the US, eventually elicits a conditioned response.
- Conditioned Response (CR): A learned response that is elicited by the CS after it has been repeatedly paired with the US.

Instrumental Conditioning (Operant Conditioning):

- Antecedent (Stimulus): A stimulus that precedes a behavior.
- Behavior (Response): An observable action.
- Consequence (Reinforcement/Punishment): An outcome that follows a behavior and modifies its frequency or likelihood of occurrence.
- Reinforcement: An outcome that increases the frequency or likelihood of a behavior being repeated.
- Punishment: An outcome that decreases the frequency or likelihood of a behavior being repeated.

Key Differences:

| Characteristic | Classical Conditioning | Instrumental Conditioning |
|---|---|---|
| Type of Response | Reflexive, automatic | Voluntary, intentional |
| Stimulus-Response Relationship | Stimulus elicits response | Response produces stimulus/consequence |
| Learning Process | Stimulus-stimulus association | Stimulus-reinforcement/punishment association |
| Role of the Organism | Passive, recipient of stimuli | Active, makes choices |
| Example | Salivating in response to the sound of a bell (US and CS) | Pressing a lever to receive a food reward (reinforcement) |