Stimulus Generalization and Discrimination

Definition

Stimulus generalization refers to a set of stimuli sharing similar properties with the original stimulus that provoked a response. Stimulus discrimination is the ability of an organism to respond only to the original stimulus, and not to other similar stimuli.

Introduction

The concepts of stimulus generalization and stimulus discrimination are encountered within the context of associative and non-associative learning.

Differentiation of Stimulus Generalization and Stimulus Discrimination Concepts

Both concepts are inherent mechanisms in the processes of associative and non-associative learning, and for both processes to take place, it is essential that a stimulus model should be stored in memory in order for comparisons with new stimuli to take place.

To begin with, generalization occurs when an organism produces the same response to different stimuli. Stimuli who exhibit analogous properties to the original are more likely to provoke a response: habituation. There could be...