Britannica AI Icon

unconditioned reflex

physiology
Also known as: UR, unconditional response, unconditioned response(Show More)

Quick Summary

An unconditioned reflex is an inborn physiological response that is not dependent on learning. These reflexes are hereditary and common within a species, forming the basis of instinctive behavior in animals. Examples include chewing, swallowing, and blinking.12

In physiology, a reflex is a simple behavior that occurs as a direct response to a specific stimulus. While many reflexes are innate, they can be modified through experience, a process known as conditioning. This means that while the initial response is unlearned, new stimuli can become associated with it, leading to learned responses.23

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.