A rat that learns not to approach a certain part of a cage because it has received a shock there exhibiting ____.
A) operant conditioning
B) shock therapy
C) desensitization
D) mirroring
E) observational learning

Question

A rat that learns not to approach a certain part of a cage because it has received a shock there exhibiting ____.  
A) operant conditioning
B) shock therapy
C) desensitization
D) mirroring
E) observational learning

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The rat's behavior of avoiding a certain part of the cage due to an aversive stimulus (shock) is an example of operant conditioning, which involves learning through the consequences of behavior. In this case, the rat learned to avoid a certain action (approaching the area where the shock was given) to avoid the negative consequence (shock). Choice B (shock therapy) is not an accurate description of the situation, as the term typically refers to a form of treatment for mental health disorders, not animal learning. Choice C (desensitization) does not fit because the rat is not being repeatedly exposed to the aversive stimulus to reduce its fear or response to it. Choices D and E (mirroring and observational learning) do not accurately describe the situation, as the rat's behavior is not being influenced by the behavior of other rats or external models.

A Rat That Learns Not to Approach a Certain Part