Introduction Learning theories have been utilized to explain the relationship between behaviors and experiences. The theories work on the premise that the laws of learning are only unearthed if there is systematic interpretation. Phobias and addictions can be better understood through classical and operant conditioning. Phobias are the persistent fears brought about by certain situations or any other thing. Phobias are mainly characterized by excessive desire particularly to avoid the stimulus causing the fear. On the other hand, addictions are the behavioral pattern that is characterized by either psychological or physical reliance on substances abuse which is known to have negative impacts on the health and the life of the abuser (West & Hardy, 2006, p.134-167). Addictions and phobias are experienced by a sizeable proportion of the population (Skinner, 1956, p.221-227). This research paper will try to distinguish classical and operant conditioning, explore the development of phobias and addictions, and explain the meaning and application of extinction in classical and operant conditioning. Distinctions between classical and operant conditioning Classical conditioning was advanced by Pavlov who denoted that dogs usually salivated on the introduction of food. The utilization of a stimulus, ringing of a bell, resulted in salivation. The model, therefore, works on the assumption that if the introduction of a stimulus that is known to evoke an emotional response is repeated together with a stimulus that does result in an emotional response, ultimately the later stimulus will induce a similar response (Pavlov, 1960, p.15-67). On the other hand, operant conditioning is generally the process that allows humans and animals to acquire behaviors that are reinforced through rewards and the avoidance of punishments. For learning to occur in both models, a short duration of time must be observed to ensure association occurs (Skinner, 1956, p.221-227). The two models are similar in their modes of acquisition and extinction. Spontaneous recovery and generalization of stimulus are similarities evident in the two models. However, stark differences exist. Operant conditioning is merely reliant on reinforcement, unlike classical conditioning that utilizes association as the main link between the stimuli and responses. Operant conditioning is mainly based on voluntary behavior. However, classical conditioning is generally dependent on the initiation of involuntary reflexive behavior. Development of phobias through operant and classical conditioning Studies have indicated that human phobias can be explained by the usage of classical conditioning. Phobias are acquired by ensuring the correct pairing between a neutral stimulus and something that is known to cause a lot of pain and suffering. The acquired responses can persist throughout the life of a person unless a clear extinction process is put in place. A sudden introduction of screeching (unconditional stimulus) makes people scamper (unconditional response) towards the pavement. If a bus hoots (conditioned stimulus) just before the onset of the screeching, then the involved persons will become accustomed to scampering when a bus hoots lo