A child avoids a furry black cat but plays with a short-haired tabby. This is an example of what?

This situation illustrates the concept of discrimination, which refers to the ability to differentiate between different stimuli and respond to them in distinct ways. In this case, the child has learned to avoid the furry black cat, perhaps due to a previous negative experience or fear, while feeling comfortable playing with the short-haired tabby cat.

Discrimination is essential in learning processes, as it allows individuals to respond appropriately to different cues rather than reacting similarly to all stimuli. This ability to distinguish between the furry black cat and the tabby showcases the child’s understanding that not all cats pose the same threat or invoke the same feelings.

Understanding this concept highlights how children, and organisms in general, learn to navigate their environment by making specific judgments about which stimuli to approach or avoid based on their previous experiences.