functional stimulus

in stimulus–response experiments, the characteristic of the stimulus that actually produces a particular effect on the organism and governs its behavior. This may be different from the nominal stimulus as defined by the experimenter. For example, if an experimenter presents a blue square to a pigeon as a nominal stimulus, the functional stimulus may simply be the color blue. Also called effective stimulus.

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Psychology term of the day

November 28th 2024

postural reflex

any of a variety of automatic movements that serve to maintain body posture. See also stance reflex.