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Chapter 15: 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 or an evolved module for fear learning.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: People acquire phobias of ancient sources of threat more readily than modern sources of threat due to preparedness or an evolved module for fear learning. This concept proposes that humans are biologically predisposed to develop fears and phobias towards stimuli that were historically threatening to their survival.

Step by step solution

01

Option A: Classical conditioning

Classical conditioning is a learning process in which an organism learns to associate a neutral stimulus with a significant stimulus, eventually responding to the neutral stimulus as if it were the significant stimulus. While classical conditioning can explain some acquired phobias, it does not specifically address why ancient sources of threat are more acquired readily than modern sources.
02

Option B: Operant conditioning

Operant conditioning is a learning process in which a behavior's frequency is influenced by its consequences, such as rewards or punishments. It does not specifically explain why there is a difference in the ease of acquiring phobias towards ancient threats compared to modern threats.
03

Option C: Observational learning

Observational learning, also known as social learning or modeling, is a type of learning where individuals learn by observing and imitating others' behaviors. While this can also contribute to phobia acquisition, it does not account for the predisposition toward ancient sources of threat over modern sources.
04

Option D: Preparedness or an evolved module for fear learning

Preparedness or evolved module for fear learning is a concept that proposes organisms, including humans, are biologically predisposed to develop fears and phobias towards stimuli that were historically threatening to their survival. This explanation specifically addresses why ancient sources of threat, such as snakes, are more easily acquired as phobias compared to modern sources, such as electrical outlets. Based on the analysis of each option, the most appropriate answer to the question is: D. Preparedness or an evolved module for fear learning.

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