How does classical conditioning primarily function in learning?

Classical conditioning fundamentally operates through the association of stimuli with responses. This learning process occurs when a neutral stimulus becomes associated with an unconditioned stimulus that naturally elicits a specific response. Over time, the neutral stimulus alone can trigger that response, even without the unconditioned stimulus being present.

For example, if a dog hears a bell (neutral stimulus) immediately before being presented with food (unconditioned stimulus), it will eventually start to salivate (conditioned response) just upon hearing the bell, even when food isn't presented. This process highlights how the dog learns to associate the sound with food.

In the context of the other options, reinforcing behaviors through rewards pertains more to operant conditioning rather than classical conditioning. Breaking down tasks into smaller units is a technique related to task analysis and does not directly involve stimulus-response associations. Removing negative consequences is also linked to operant conditioning strategies aimed at altering behavior rather than the association of stimuli and responses characteristic of classical conditioning.