CLASSICAL CONDITIONING THEORY

AND OPERANT CONDITIONING THEORY

Classical conditioning theory: Neutral stimulus when paired
with unconditional stimulus it becomes conditioned stimulus.

Operant conditioning theory: A type of conditioning in which

desired voluntary behaviour leads to a reward or prevents a
punishment

Points of difference:
Points

Classical

Operant

1. Behaviour

The behaviour in this

type of conditioning is
involuntary. i.e.
individuals tend to start
behaving in a certain
manner when exposed
to the same stimuli time
and again.

In this type of
conditioning the
behaviour is
involuntary. I.e.
individuals respond
willfully in particular
conditions to gain
something or prevent
loses.

2. Reinforcement

In classical
conditioning theory an
individual is
automatically
reinforced. i.e. it
gradually learns to
respond to a certain
stimulus by continuous
exposure.

In operant conditioning,
the learner must provide
a correct response in
order to receive the
reinforcement. E.g.: an
individual in the office
will only receive a
promotion if he
performs well.