Differentiate between conditioned reflexes and action reflex??

Conditioned reflexes are learned responses to a specific stimulus that have been acquired through repeated association with that stimulus. These responses are not innate and are acquired through experience and training. For example, Pavlov's dogs salivating at the sound of a bell after being conditioned to associate the bell with food.

On the other hand, action reflexes are innate, automatic responses to a specific stimulus that are not learned or acquired through experience. These reflexes are typically protective in nature and are designed to help the organism respond quickly to potential threats or dangers. Examples of action reflexes include the knee-jerk reflex and the withdrawal reflex.

In summary, conditioned reflexes are learned responses acquired through repeated association with a specific stimulus, while action reflexes are innate, automatic responses to a specific stimulus that are not learned or acquired through experience.

Conditioned Reflexes

- Definition: Learned responses that develop through repeated pairings of a neutral stimulus with a natural reflex.
- Involves: Formation of new neuronal connections between the neutral stimulus and the reflex pathway.
- Process:
- Neutral stimulus (e.g., sound) is paired repeatedly with a natural stimulus (e.g., food).
- The neutral stimulus gradually becomes a conditioned stimulus that elicits the same reflex as the natural stimulus.
- Examples:
- Pavlov's dogs salivating at the sound of a bell
- Blinking in response to a sudden flash of light

Action Reflexes

- Definition: Innate, unlearned responses that occur automatically in response to specific stimuli.
- Involves: Pre-wired neuronal circuits in the brain and spinal cord.
- Process:
- Stimulus triggers the activation of specific sensory receptors and pathways.
- The sensory information is processed in the brain or spinal cord, which sends motor signals to the effector organs to produce the response.
- Examples:
- Withdrawal reflex from hot or painful stimuli
- Pupillary reflex in response to light
- Patellar reflex (knee jerk)

Key Differences

| Feature | Conditioned Reflexes | Action Reflexes |
|---|---|---|
| Nature | Learned | Innate |
| Development | Requires repeated pairings | Present at birth |
| Circuitry | New neuronal connections | Pre-wired pathways |
| Stimulus | Neutral stimulus becomes a conditioned stimulus | Specific natural stimulus |
| Response | Acquired through learning | Automatic and involuntary |
| Modifiability | Can be changed or extinguished | Hardwired and difficult to modify |