SSgt Luna associates the arrival of the first sergeant with unannounced drug tests. Which learning theory does this scenario exemplify?

SSgt Luna associates the arrival of the first sergeant with unannounced drug tests. Which learning theory does this scenario exemplify?

• A. Operant conditioning
• B. Observational learning
• C. Classical conditioning
• D. Cognitive learning theory

Answer: (C)

In this scenario, SSgt Luna associating the arrival of the first sergeant with unannounced drug tests exemplifies classical conditioning. This learning theory involves creating an association between a neutral stimulus and an unconditioned stimulus to elicit a conditioned response. In this case, the arrival of the first sergeant serves as the neutral stimulus, and through repeated experiences, it has become associated with the unconditioned stimulus of unannounced drug tests. The anticipated response to this situation—perhaps feelings of anxiety or alertness about the possibility of a drug test—then occurs even in the absence of the drug test itself, simply due to the prior association formed between these two stimuli. This understanding of classical conditioning helps to clarify how conditioned responses can develop in a workplace context, leading to reactions based on past experiences rather than just the immediate situation.

In this scenario, SSgt Luna associating the arrival of the first sergeant with unannounced drug tests exemplifies classical conditioning. This learning theory involves creating an association between a neutral stimulus and an unconditioned stimulus to elicit a conditioned response.

In this case, the arrival of the first sergeant serves as the neutral stimulus, and through repeated experiences, it has become associated with the unconditioned stimulus of unannounced drug tests. The anticipated response to this situation—perhaps feelings of anxiety or alertness about the possibility of a drug test—then occurs even in the absence of the drug test itself, simply due to the prior association formed between these two stimuli.

This understanding of classical conditioning helps to clarify how conditioned responses can develop in a workplace context, leading to reactions based on past experiences rather than just the immediate situation.