Applied Behavior Analysis Technician (ABAT) Practice Test

What is the term for the response that occurs automatically to an unconditioned stimulus?

1. Conditioned Response

2. Operant Response

3. Unconditioned Response

4. Neutral Response

The correct answer is: Unconditioned Response

The term for the response that occurs automatically to an unconditioned stimulus is the unconditioned response. An unconditioned stimulus is a stimulus that naturally and automatically triggers a response without any prior learning. The unconditioned response is the unlearned reaction or reflex that follows, demonstrating a direct and innate link between the stimulus and the response. For example, if food (an unconditioned stimulus) is presented to a dog, the dog will salivate (the unconditioned response) without any prior conditioning. This concept is foundational in classical conditioning, where associations between stimuli and responses are formed. Understanding this term is crucial as it underpins many principles in behavior analysis and how behavior can be shaped through conditioning.