What is an object or event called that elicits a response without prior learning?

A) an unconditioned response
B) a conditioned response
C) an unconditioned stimulus
D) a conditioned stimulus

Unconditioned Stimulus

In classical conditioning, a stimulus that naturally triggers an automatic response without prior conditioning.

Conditioned Response

A learned reaction or behavior to a conditioned stimulus that occurs after conditioning in classical conditioning experiments.

Unconditioned Response

An automatic, reflexive reaction that occurs in response to an unconditioned stimulus without prior learning or conditioning.