During the experiment, Watson presented the child with things which are often considered frightening-a rat, fire, a clown mask. At first, Albert was unafraid of these things. But then Watson tormented the child with loud, unexpected noises as he was playing with them. Sure enough, Albert learnt to associate these things with the unpleasant experience. Even when the noises were stopped, Albert withdrew his body and puckered his face when presented once more with the rat and mask.