_____ is the disappearance or weakening of a learned response following the removal or absence of the unconditioned stimulus (in classical conditioning) or the removal of a reinforcer (in operant conditioning).

• A. Stimulus generalization
• B. Spontaneous recovery
• C. Stimulus discrimination
• D. Extinction

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context of the problem: It involves concepts from classical and operant conditioning, which are fundamental theories in behavioral psychology.
2. Identify the key terms: 'learned response', 'unconditioned stimulus', and 'reinforcer'. In classical conditioning, a learned response is typically a conditioned response to a conditioned stimulus. In operant conditioning, a learned response is a behavior that has been reinforced.
3. Recognize the process described: The problem describes a scenario where a learned response diminishes. In classical conditioning, this happens when the unconditioned stimulus is no longer presented with the conditioned stimulus. In operant conditioning, it occurs when the reinforcement is removed.
4. Connect the description to the correct term: The disappearance or weakening of a learned response due to the absence of the unconditioned stimulus or reinforcer is known as 'extinction'.
5. Review the other options: 'Stimulus generalization' refers to the tendency to respond to stimuli that are similar to the conditioned stimulus. 'Spontaneous recovery' is the reappearance of an extinguished response after a period of non-exposure to the conditioned stimulus. 'Stimulus discrimination' is the ability to differentiate between similar stimuli. These do not match the described process.