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Figure 9.1 Classical Conditioning Experiment
Pavlov’s students used this apparatus. The tube leading from the dog’s mouth allowed saliva to be measured and recorded on the kymograph. What was the point of this experiment?
Before Conditioningg
Neutral
stimulus No salivation
Some stimuli are neutral (neutral stimulus). The dog shows no salivary response to the
bell’s ring.
Before Conditioning
Food (UCS) Salivation (UCR)
Some stimuli are already meaningful (unconditioned stimulus); for example, food causes the dog to salivate.
During Conditioning
Bell (CS) Salivation (UCR)
Food (UCS)
The bell (CS) and meat (UCS) are presented in close sequence.
Fistula (tube) is implanted to
collect saliva.
Stimulus (food)
After Conditioning
Bell (CS) Salivation (CR)
The bell was neutral before, but now can trigger salivation.
Kymograph records dog’s response to stimulus.
Harness holds dog in place.
Chapter 9 / Learning: Principles and Applications 243