Which statement best describes elicited versus emitted responses?

• A. Elicited - classical response
• B. Emitted - internal thought
• C. Elicited - operant response
• D. Emitted - reflexive response

Answer: (A)

Elicited responses are automatic, stimulus-driven reactions—the kind of responses seen in classical conditioning where a stimulus triggers a reflex-like behavior. Emitted responses are voluntary actions the animal performs, driven by reinforcement or cues, and are central to operant conditioning.

This statement is best because a classical (Pavlovian) response is elicited by the stimulus; the organism doesn’t choose it, it’s brought forth by the stimulus. For example, a dog salivating at the sound of a bell after conditioning is elicited. In contrast, emitted responses would be voluntary behaviors like pawing at a lever after reinforcement, and internal thoughts aren’t observable behaviors. Reflexive responses are typically elicited, not emitted.