Acquisition is the initial stage of learning in classical and operant conditioning, during which a new response is established. In classical conditioning, it is the phase when a neutral stimulus is repeatedly paired with an unconditioned stimulus until it becomes a conditioned stimulus that elicits a conditioned response.

The speed and strength of acquisition depend on the timing and consistency of the pairing, the intensity of the stimuli, and the organism's prior learning. In operant conditioning, acquisition is the process by which a behaviour becomes more frequent as it is reinforced. Acquisition is typically followed by extinction if the conditioned or reinforced association is no longer supported.

Key points

• First stage of conditioning
• Strengthened by consistent pairing or reinforcement
• Followed by extinction if support stops
• Affected by timing, intensity, and prior learning