Stimulus-response

In psychology and related fields, the stimulus-response model describes a fundamental process of learning and behavior. It posits that a specific event (the stimulus) triggers a predictable reaction or behavior (the response). This relationship can be innate, learned through experience (conditioning), or a combination of both. The model emphasizes observable behaviors and often focuses on understanding how environmental factors influence an organism's reactions. The strength of the response is frequently influenced by the intensity or frequency of the stimulus.

Stimulus-response meaning with examples

• A doctor shining a light into a patient's eye elicits a pupillary constriction, the pupils getting smaller. This is an example of a direct stimulus-response relationship because the light is the stimulus, and the pupil's contraction is the response. This reflex action protects the eye from bright light and is automatic.
• A dog salivating at the sound of a can opener is a learned stimulus-response relationship. Initially, the can opener is associated with food. Over time, the sound (stimulus) alone evokes salivation (response) through classical conditioning; the dog anticipates food as a reward, based on past experience.
• In a classroom, a student answering a teacher's question correctly (response) is often reinforced with praise (positive stimulus). This positive feedback increases the likelihood of the student answering future questions correctly (response). The students respond positively to their teachers' feedback.
• A sudden loud noise (stimulus) causes a person to startle or jump (response). This is a natural, instinctual response to a potentially threatening situation. The startle reflex can involve various physical changes such as heart rate and breath rate increasing automatically.