Conditioning Theories

Conditioning theories explain how behaviors are learned through associations. Classical conditioning, discovered by Pavlov, involves forming connections between a neutral stimulus and an automatic response, like salivating when hearing a bell after it's paired with food. Operant conditioning, developed by Skinner, involves learning behaviors through rewards or punishments, which increase or decrease the likelihood of that behavior happening again. Both theories highlight that habits and responses are shaped by experiences and the environment, influencing how we develop new behaviors or change existing ones over time.