Which type of learning replaces an undesirable response to a stimulus by using a favorable one?

• A. Purpose
• B. Classical conditioning
• C. Operant conditioning
• D. Habituation

Answer: (A)

Replacing an undesirable response to a stimulus with a favorable one is counterconditioning, a form of classical conditioning. In counterconditioning, the trigger that used to elicit an unwanted reaction is paired with something that produces a positive or calming response, so the subject starts to respond with the favorable reaction to that trigger instead of the undesired one. This relies on forming a new association between the cue and a pleasant state, rather than simply weakening the reaction or shaping behavior through rewards for different actions. Habituation would just lessen the response over time without creating a new positive reaction, and operant conditioning changes behavior through reinforcement or punishment of actions, not by swapping the internal response to a stimulus. So the approach described best fits classical conditioning.