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

November 22nd 2024

constant error

a systematic error in some particular direction. Constant error is computed as the average positive or negative difference between the observed and actual values along a dimension of interest. For example, if a weight of 1 kg is judged on average to be 1.5 kg, and a weight of 2 kg is judged to be 2.5 kg, the constant error is 500 g. See also absolute error; random error.