The comparator hypothesis predicts that the best means of extinguishing inhibitory responding is to
A)present the CS+ with the US.
B)present the CS+ alone.
C)present the CS- alone.
D)present the CS+ and CS- together without the US.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The comparator hypothesis proposes that inhibitory responding is caused by the comparison of the CS+ and CS- stimuli. The best means of extinguishing inhibitory responding is to present the CS+ alone because this disrupts the comparison process between the CS+ and CS- and weakens the inhibitory association. Presenting the CS+ with the US would strengthen the excitatory association, while presenting the CS- alone would strengthen the inhibitory association. Presenting the CS+ and CS- together without the US would maintain the inhibitory association.

The Comparator Hypothesis Predicts That the Best Means of Extinguishing