Pavlov’s Dog: The Psychology Experiment That Changed Everything

Pavlov's Dog

Pavlov’s Dog is a well-known experiment in psychology that has been taught for decades. Ivan Pavlov, a Russian physiologist, discovered classical conditioning through his experiments with dogs. He found that dogs could be trained to associate a sound with food, causing them to salivate at the sound alone. The experiment began with Pavlov ringing a … Read more

Classical vs. Operant Conditioning: Which One Wins in the Battle for Behavior Change?

Classical vs. Operant Conditioning

Regarding learning, there are two essential concepts in behavioral psychology: classical vs. operant conditioning. These two types of learning have some similarities but also some key differences. Understanding these differences can help us better understand how we learn and how we can shape our behavior. Classical conditioning involves pairing a neutral stimulus with an involuntary … Read more

The Secret to Effective Reinforcement: Understanding Fixed-Ratio Schedules in Psychology

Fixed-Ratio Schedule of Reinforcement

A fixed-ratio schedule of reinforcement is a type of operant conditioning that rewards a response only after a specific number of responses. This schedule can be found in various contexts, from dog training to human behavior. Understanding how fixed-ratio schedules work can help us better understand how to shape and reinforce behaviors in ourselves and … Read more

The Shocking Truth Behind the Little Albert Experiment: How One Study Changed Psychology Forever

Little Albert experiment

The Little Albert experiment is one of psychology’s most controversial and widely known studies. Conducted in 1920 by John B. Watson and Rosalie Rayner at Johns Hopkins University, the study aimed to test the principles of classical conditioning. The experiment involved conditioning a young child to fear a white rat by pairing the rat with … Read more

Positive Reinforcement: The Secret to Motivating Yourself and Others

Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool in shaping behavior. It involves the introduction of a desirable or pleasant stimulus after a behavior, which reinforces the behavior and makes it more likely to reoccur. This concept is widely used in psychology and applies to many areas of life, from parenting to workplace management. One of the … Read more