Psychology of Learning
EXP4404
Chapter 10: Generalization, Discrimination,
and Stimulus Control
Dr. Steve
Topics Covered

Generalization



Discrimination






Measurement
Semantic Generalization
Discrimination Training
SD vs. SΔ
Procedures
Stimulus Control
Theories of Generalization and Discrimination
Analysis of Behavior
Generalization

Generalization

Classical Conditioning

Operant Conditioning
Generalization


Generalization is vital to learning and survival and
crucial to research
Increase generalization by learning or practicing in a
variety of settings
Generalization

Generalization Gradient
Generalization

Primary vs. Secondary Generalization

Primary-

Secondary
Generalization

Semantic Generalization
Generalization
Generalization of behaviors following
punishment or extinction

Inhibitory generalization
Responses

S-
Discrimination

Discrimination Training

Training procedure:
1.
Acquisition of response in one situation
1.
Extinction of response in all other situations
Discrimination

Discrimination Training Methods

Successive Discrimination Training

Simultaneous Discrimination Training

Matching to Sample

Oddity Matching
Discrimination

Discrimination Training
S+
SVideo example discrimination training to encourage stair use
Discrimination

Errorless Discrimination Training

Differential Outcome Effect
Stimulus Control

Stimulus Control
Imprecise
Stimulus Control
Precise
Generalization
Discrimination
Stimulus Control

Variables that effect stimulus control
(Generalization vs. Discrimination)

Practice

Schedule of Reinforcement


Delay of Reinforcement
Goal of Training


Generalization
Discrimination
Theories of Generalization &
Discrimination

Discrimination Training characterized by:
Theories of Generalization &
Discrimination
Peak Shift
Behavioral
contrast
S-
Theories of Generalization &
Discrimination

Pavlov’s Theory

The more closely a neutral stimulus resembles a CS+,

If neutral stimulus resembles CS-,
Theories of Generalization &
Discrimination

Spence’s Theory



(excitatory gradient)
(inhibitory gradient)
(algebraic summation)
Peak Shift
Excitatory Gradient
Net Gradient
P(Response)
Inhibitory Gradient
S+
250
500
S750 1000
Hz
Theories of Generalization &
Discrimination

Lashley-Wade Theory
Theories of Generalization &
Discrimination

Kohler’s Relational Theory

Transpositional Effect
S+
S-
Discrimination
Training
Learned
“lighter than”
Analysis of Behavior

Mental Rotation or Discrimination Training?
Analysis of Behavior

Smoking Relapse
Analysis of Behavior

Experimental Neuroses


Type of learned helplessness
E.g., child who can’t figure out how to please mother
(what is considered a properly made bed)