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two-factor theory

1. a theory that avoidance behavior is the result of two kinds of conditioning. Initially, stimuli that precede the presentation of the stimulus to be avoided (e.g., an electric shock) are established as aversive by classical conditioning (Factor 1). Next, the subject learns to terminate the conditional aversive stimulus by means of escape conditioning (Factor 2). [proposed by O. Hobart Mowrer]

2. a theory that intelligence comprises two kinds of factors: a general factor, whose influence pervades all tests of intelligence, and various specific factors, each of whose influence extends only to a single test in a test battery. [proposed in 1904 by Charles Spearman]

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Psychology term of the day

October 15th 2024

Kohnstamm test

Kohnstamm test

a demonstration frequently used to prepare an individual for hypnosis. The participant is asked to press an arm backward against a wall for a minute or two and then to step away, allowing the arm to relax. What follows is a natural reflexive tendency for the arm to rise, known as Kohnstamm’s phenomenon. Believing that the reflex has occurred because of the hypnotist’s instructions for the task, the participant becomes more inclined to be susceptible to further suggestions during subsequent hypnosis. Also called Kohnstamm maneuver. [Oskar Kohnstamm (1871–1917), German physician]