What is the relevance of the cherry/almond scent in the Dias and Ressler (2014) study?

The cherry/almond scent serves as a conditioned stimulus in the Dias and Ressler (2014) study because it was used specifically in an experimental context to create a learned association in participants. In classical conditioning, a neutral stimulus (like the cherry/almond scent) can become a conditioned stimulus when it is paired with an unconditioned stimulus that elicits a natural response. In this study, the scent was linked to a fear-inducing stimulus, leading participants to develop a conditioned response to the scent alone. This illustrates key principles of learning and memory within psychology, showcasing how environmental stimuli can influence behavior and emotional responses through conditioning. Using the scent as a conditioned stimulus allowed researchers to analyze how learned associations are formed and how they can affect individuals in the future.