National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level 2 (NCAC II) Practice Exam Exam

What is the repetition of certain behaviors until they become established in daily life called?

1. Conditioning

2. Habituation

3. Desensitization

4. Reinforcement

The correct answer is: Habituation

The term that describes the repetition of certain behaviors until they become established in daily life is habituation. Habituation refers to a process where an individual gradually becomes accustomed to a stimulus or behavior through repeated exposure. As this exposure continues, the response to the stimulus diminishes, allowing the behavior to become a regular part of daily activities. This process is significant in understanding how humans and animals learn and adapt to their environments. Conditioning, while relevant, typically refers to the learning process through which behaviors are developed in response to various stimuli, rather than the establishment of a behavior through repetition alone. Desensitization is a specific type of conditioning often aimed at reducing fear or anxiety responses to stimuli. Reinforcement involves the use of rewards or consequences to strengthen a behavior, but it does not specifically address the gradual establishment of behavior as a habitual routine. Thus, habituation accurately captures the essence of behaviors becoming integrated into daily life through repetition.