The Dual Process Theory of Habituation
Nonnie J Ramsey
Liberty University
Psych 365: Psychological Foundations of Learning
Cynthia Edin
July 11, 2023
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The Dual Process Theory of Habituation
The Dual Process of Habituation and Sensitization
Habituation and sensitization effects are variations in behavior or
performance. Both of
these are observable behavioral responses to stimuli exposures. Both
outcomes are type-
regulated effects (Domjan, 2018). There are two distinct ways of thinking
that are carried out by
two primary brain systems, the unconscious and the conscious, which can be
conceived as a dual
process theory (Domjan, 2018). The conscious system operates in a less
active manner whereas
the unconscious system generates instantaneous thought. According to the
dual process theory
of habituation, which is a non-associative learning phenomenon
responsiveness to a stimulus
declines over time with repeated presentations of the stimulus (Domjan,
2018). Sensitization is
another non-associative learning phenomenon in which responses to a
stimulus get stronger the
more times it is presented (Domjan, 2018). Both are effective in eliciting a
behavior when a
stimulus is presented repeatedly (Domjan, 2018). As opposed to the other,
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habituation is a
stimulus specific. The single-factor theory that explains how repeated
exposure to a stimulus
changes its efficacy is known as the effects of habituation (Domjan, 2018).
Habituation is crucial
because it enables the brain to process data more quickly and efficiently by
preventing it from
wasting time on processing stimuli that it has previously experienced before.
Sensitization can
take place in a variety of circumstances where a potent stimulus is present.
By using this
adaptive behavior, you can be ready for unforeseen situations. Unlike
habituation, which is a
response to particular stimuli, sensitization can be generalized. During these
processes,
antagonist mechanisms are present (Domjan, 2018). As with drug addiction,
a person will likely
feel ecstatic the first time they use a substance. The person will feel less
ecstatic the second time they consume the medication, even less the third
time, and so on until they feel no satisfaction at all. Tolerance is the term
that is referred to for this. A form of habituation called tolerance results
from defense systems that fight any departure from your emotional state.
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The Biblical View on Learning
Learning is a lifelong process and the ability to learn is a gift from God.
Previous research has shown that whatever information we have can improve
our ability to learn new information. The learning process of Biblical Truth
begins in the reader’s heart. When reading the Bible that the words “learn”
and “teach” can be found throughout the text. In Proverbs 1:7 we are taught
that “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge (Barker, 2011). Jesus
came as a sage which is a teacher of wisdom. In the book of James 1:5 we
are told “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who give generously
to all without reproach, and it will be given him” (Barker, 2011). In Proverbs
16:16 we are taught that having wisdom and understanding is better than
having silver or gold. The Bible supports and encourages the process of
learning, so we are not left ignorant to the “Truth” which is Jesus Christ.
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References
Barker, K. (2011). NIV study Bible: New International Version. Zondervan Pub.
House.
Domjan, M. (2018). (7th ed.). Cengage.Principles of learning and behavior
