Classical Conditioning

My intention is to discuss my observation of classical conditioning. I have unknowingly conditioned my dog Belle in classical conditioning. I will describe and highlight behaviours that have occurred and continue as a result of this classical conditioning.

Over the past years, I have been unaware of the reason why my dog behaves certain ways. From excitability and anticipation, to fear and resistance. The most notable behaviours occur just prior to a likely interaction be it playing, petting, exercise and food. These unconditioned stimuli provide the unconditioned response and a pattern of behaviour showing her excitement. After analysing this behaviour I have recognised the unconditioned stimulus and unconditioned response as play and exercise based activities. The collection of keys from inside the house was often unrelated but in a majority of interactions they became the neutral stimulus.

The sound of keys have now become the conditioned stimulus. I have noticed Belles behaviour is now an unconditioned response as the stimulus-response are often linked. Her physiological response and anticipation occur at the sound of the keys inside the house. Her response of excitement and notable mood change occur at the sound of the keys. Tail wagging would increase and she would have a spring in her step and waiting on the mat in anticipation.

On various occasions, we have accessed the keys inside the house to unlock the front door. On these occasions, Belle has heard the sound and anticipates that we will be coming to out into the yard. Her physiological response is the same. Increased tail wagging, a spring in her step and waiting on the mat, for us to pat or better still give exercise or food. Her anticipation is visible and her conditioned response is to the sound of the keys inside the house. It is unlikely that extinction of her conditioned response will occur as the conditioned stimulus and unconditioned stimulus remain more constant than the conditioned stimulus by itself.

It is amazing to see how seemingly unrelated events can illicit responses such as classical conditioning in the day to day living. These habits have created a bond between us and Belle, one of anticipation and trust that is demonstrated numerous times a day. These playful and kind interactions provide both of us with a strong sense of anticipation and reliability. For the most part, positive and fun interactions serve us both, and this provides Belle with a strong sense of reliance and trust.

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