what do psychologist call a relatively permanent change

Charlotte

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01-03-2025

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Psychologists refer to a relatively permanent change in behavior or knowledge as learning. This change isn't temporary; it's a lasting modification resulting from experience. Learning encompasses a broad range of phenomena, from simple reflexes to complex cognitive skills. Understanding how learning happens is central to many areas of psychology.

Types of Learning: Beyond Simple Memorization

Learning isn't solely about rote memorization. It's a multifaceted process encompassing several types:

1. Classical Conditioning: Associative Learning

This type of learning, pioneered by Ivan Pavlov, involves associating a neutral stimulus with a naturally occurring stimulus (unconditioned stimulus) that triggers an automatic response (unconditioned response). Through repeated pairings, the neutral stimulus becomes a conditioned stimulus, eliciting a conditioned response similar to the unconditioned response. For example, Pavlov's dogs learned to associate the bell (conditioned stimulus) with food (unconditioned stimulus), eventually salivating (conditioned response) at the sound of the bell alone.

2. Operant Conditioning: Learning Through Consequences

B.F. Skinner championed operant conditioning, where learning occurs through consequences. Behaviors followed by positive reinforcement (rewards) are more likely to be repeated. Conversely, behaviors followed by punishment are less likely to recur. The effectiveness of reinforcement and punishment depends on factors like timing and consistency.

3. Observational Learning: Learning by Watching

Albert Bandura's work highlighted observational learning, or social learning. Individuals learn by observing others' behaviors and their consequences. This type of learning is crucial for social development and acquiring complex skills. The famous Bobo doll experiment demonstrated how children can learn aggressive behavior through observation.

4. Cognitive Learning: Mental Processes and Knowledge Acquisition

Cognitive learning focuses on the mental processes involved in acquiring, processing, and retaining information. It emphasizes higher-level cognitive functions like problem-solving, decision-making, and understanding concepts. This type of learning often involves active engagement with the material and constructing meaning.

The Role of Memory in Relatively Permanent Change

Memory is inextricably linked to learning. A relatively permanent change in behavior implies that information has been encoded, stored, and retrieved. Without memory, learning wouldn't be possible. There are several stages involved in memory:

• Encoding: Transforming sensory information into a format the brain can process and store.
• Storage: Maintaining encoded information over time.
• Retrieval: Accessing and bringing stored information back into conscious awareness.

Different types of memory exist, including:

• Sensory memory: Brief storage of sensory information.
• Short-term memory: Temporary storage of information currently in use.
• Long-term memory: Relatively permanent storage of information. This is further divided into explicit (declarative) memory (facts and events) and implicit (nondeclarative) memory (skills and habits).

Factors Affecting Relatively Permanent Change (Learning)

Several factors influence the likelihood of a relatively permanent change in behavior:

• Motivation: Highly motivated individuals tend to learn more effectively.
• Attention: Focusing attention on the material is essential for encoding.
• Repetition: Repeating information strengthens memory and enhances learning.
• Spacing effect: Spreading learning sessions over time improves retention compared to cramming.
• Active recall: Testing oneself on the material aids in retrieval practice.

Conclusion: Learning as a Continuous Process

In summary, psychologists call a relatively permanent change in behavior or knowledge learning. This multifaceted process involves various types of learning and relies heavily on memory. Learning isn't a static event; it's a continuous process shaped by numerous factors. Understanding these principles is crucial for effective teaching, training, and personal development. The relatively permanent nature of this change underscores its importance in shaping who we are and how we interact with the world.