In the context of classical conditioning, who is most commonly recognized as the “father of classical conditioning”?

• A. Ivan Pavlov
• B. John B. Watson
• C. Edward L. Thorndike
• D. B. F. Skinner

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of classical conditioning, which is a learning process that occurs through associations between an environmental stimulus and a naturally occurring stimulus.
2. Recall the historical figures associated with learning theories: Ivan Pavlov, John B. Watson, Edward L. Thorndike, and B. F. Skinner.
3. Identify that Ivan Pavlov is most famously known for his experiments with dogs, where he demonstrated classical conditioning by pairing a neutral stimulus (like a bell) with an unconditioned stimulus (like food) to elicit a conditioned response (salivation).
4. Recognize that John B. Watson is associated with behaviorism and classical conditioning in humans, Edward L. Thorndike with the law of effect and instrumental conditioning, and B. F. Skinner with operant conditioning.
5. Conclude that the title 'father of classical conditioning' is most commonly attributed to Ivan Pavlov due to his pioneering experimental work in this area.