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Chapter 14: Problem 3

The fact that people acquire phobias of ancient sources of threat (such as snakes) much more readily than modern sources of threat (such as electrical outlets) can best be explained by: A. classical conditioning. B. operant conditioning. C. observational learning. D. preparedness.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: D. Preparedness.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding classical conditioning

Classical conditioning is a learning process where a neutral stimulus comes to evoke a response after being paired with a stimulus that naturally evokes a response. This theory is related to the work of Ivan Pavlov and his famous experiment with dogs. However, this does not directly explain why ancient threats are more potent in causing phobias than modern ones.
02

Understanding operant conditioning

Operant conditioning is a type of learning where behavior is modified by its consequences, such as reinforcement or punishment. It was proposed by B. F. Skinner and explains how learning from the consequences of our actions can shape our behavior. Although this could have some influence on how we react to specific threats, it does not explain the predisposition to ancient sources of threat.
03

Understanding observational learning

Observational learning, also known as social learning, is a process in which individuals learn by watching the actions and outcomes of others. This type of learning can contribute to the development of phobias, such as when a person observes someone else reacting fearfully to a snake. However, this still does not explain the higher prevalence of phobias related to ancient threats over modern threats.
04

Understanding preparedness

Preparedness is a concept from evolutionary psychology that suggests certain fears and phobias have been adaptive in the past and are therefore more easily acquired than others. In this context, preparedness refers to the predisposition to form certain fear associations more rapidly due to evolutionary pressures. Fears of ancient sources of threat were more common in our ancestors’ environments, and these fears increased their chances of survival. This perspective implies that we are "prepared" to acquire certain phobias due to the importance of those fears in our evolutionary past.
05

Choosing the correct answer

Now that we've examined the four answer choices, we can determine which one best explains why people are more easily susceptible to phobias of ancient sources of threat than modern sources. Preparedness (option D) is the best explanation because it is based on evolutionary principles and directly addresses the differentiation between ancient and modern sources of threat. So, the correct answer is: D. Preparedness.

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