The Cats in Thorndike's Experiments Improved Their Ability to Escape

question 177

Multiple Choice

The cats in Thorndike's experiments improved their ability to escape his puzzle boxes gradually, not suddenly. What conclusion did he draw from this observation?

• A) Learning is based on strengthening responses, not on insights.
• B) Some animal species are more intelligent than others.
• C) Behaviorist assumptions do not apply to operant conditioning.
• D) Learning depends on a combination of classical conditioning and operant conditioning.

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Definitions:

Cognitive Psychologist

A professional who studies mental processes such as perception, memory, thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making.

Reflexively

Done automatically without conscious thought as a spontaneous reaction or response.

Open Their Mouths

A phrase indicating the act of someone beginning to speak or articulate thoughts, often used metaphorically.

Cheek

The fleshy part of the face below the eye and between the nose and the ear, important for expression and speech.