Question

Differentiate between unconditioned and conditioned reflex.

Answer 1

Reflex:

1. Reflex is a sudden, involuntary, unplanned action or response to a stimulus. It may or may not involve the brain. It helps in the survival of an individual by protecting it from dangerous stimuli like pain or heat. Reflexes are of two types-
2. An unconditioned reflex is an unlearned response that occurs in response to a stimulus.
3. A conditioned reflex is a learned response that occurs in response to a stimulus.

Unconditioned reflex	Conditioned reflex
Inborn and inherited; present for all life.	Acquired during lifetime; temporary.
Constant response.	Response based on individual preference.
Lower nerve centers activated.	Cortical centers activated.
Involves reflex arcs.	Involves neural connections.
Eg- withdrawal of the hand on touching a hot pan.	Eg- standing up when the teacher enters the class.