Spence's theory suggests that the peak shift phenomenon will only occur when
A)the excitatory and inhibitory generalization gradients overlap.
B)the excitatory and inhibitory generalization gradients do not overlap.
C)the inhibitory generalization gradient shifts towards the S+.
D)the excitatory generalization gradient shifts away from the S-.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to Spence's theory, the peak shift phenomenon occurs when the excitatory and inhibitory generalization gradients overlap. The peak of the resulting pattern of response will shift away from the S- and towards a novel stimulus that is even more different from the S-. This occurs because the inhibitory gradient suppresses responding to stimuli that are more similar to the S-, while the excitatory gradient enhances responding to stimuli that are more dissimilar.

Spence's Theory Suggests That the Peak Shift Phenomenon Will Only