stimulus-response theory
nounUK /ˈstɪmjʊləs rɪˈspɒns ˈθɪəri/
US /ˈstɪmjələs rɪˈspɑːns ˈθɪri/
The idea that a thing that happens makes a living thing react in a certain way.
The teacher explained stimulus-response theory by showing how a bell makes a dog expect food.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A learning model where a reward or punishment strengthens the link between a signal and a reaction.
In stimulus-response theory, praising a student for raising their hand makes them do it more often.
3. A framework in psychology that focuses on observable actions rather than hidden thoughts.
Early psychologists used stimulus-response theory to study how animals learn new habits.
4. A way to describe automatic reactions, like flinching when something moves quickly toward your face.
Blinking when a puff of air hits your eye is a simple example of stimulus-response theory.