Abstract
Naive rats with no history of food deprivation self-trained to lever press for food pellets and subsequently were shifted to a variable-interval schedule. Following 5 days of variable-interval training, the rats were prefed with the response-produced food (Noyes pellets) for the 2 hr. prior to variable-interval sessions. Response rates dropped substantially but returned to previous levels when prefeeding ended. Introduction of free food (pellets) into the response chamber also reduced response rates, but not as much as did prefeeding.
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Jackson, D.E., Barclay, L.A. Factors Affecting Lever Pressing on a Variable-Interval Schedule in Nondeprived Rats. Psychol Rec 26, 495–500 (1976). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03394415
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03394415