Classical Conditioning:
Classical conditioning is learning through association and was discovered by Pavlov, a
Russian physiologist. In simple terms, two stimuli are linked together to produce a new
learned response in a person or animal. Thus, it is a form of learning where two stimulus
events become associated in such a way that the occurrence of one stimulus reliably
predicts the occurrence of response. It is also known as Pavlovian conditioning or
stimulus substitution theory.
Classical conditioning was initially discovered to be an effective method of learning in
dogs. Since that time, numerous research studies have found classical conditioning to be
effective in humans as well. John B. Watson conditioned a fear response in “Little
Albert” by banging a hammer on a metal pole every time Albert touched a white rat.
Albert soon developed a conditioned fear response to rats as well as other similar furry
objects. Classical conditioning is effective in a number of therapeutic treatments in
humans, such as aversion therapy, systematic desensitization, and flooding. Classical
conditioning is used not only in therapeutic interventions, but in everyday life as well,
such as by advertising agencies.
History of application of classical conditioning:
In the early 1900s, John B. Watson carried out a controversial classical conditioning
