generalization gradient

a graph marking the similarity or difference between two stimuli versus the similarity or difference in their elicited responses. An excitatory gradient (or excitation gradient) graphs an increased tendency to respond to a stimulus and to other stimuli that resemble it, whereas an inhibitory gradient (or inhibition gradient) graphs a decreased tendency. In general, the more similar two stimuli, the more similar the responses. See also stimulus generalization.

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Psychology term of the day

March 17th 2025

paranoid delusion

loosely, any of a variety of false personal beliefs tenaciously sustained even in the face of incontrovertible evidence to the contrary. These include delusions of grandeur, delusional jealousy, or, most frequently, delusions of persecution.