Abstract
The results of the present study are inconsistent with several previous reports of positive contrast in rats receiving discrimination training in mixed schedules of reinforcement. Using a semimixed schedule (i.e., A mixed schedule with blackouts between successive components) containing the parameters of a multiple schedule that have previously, in our laboratory, produced positive contrast in rats reliably, positive contrast was obtained in semimixed extinction variable interval in only two of 21 possible instances. In both of these instances, the effect was extremely small. In comparison, multiple extinction variable interval produced positive contrast in seven of seven instances, although the effects here were somewhat fragile. These findings have implications for both the optimal stimulus conditions for obtaining positive contrast in rats as well as the control conditions needed to validate its occurrence.
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Gutman, A., Minor, T.R. & Sutterer, J.R. Discrimination Training in Semimixed and Multiple Schedules. Psychol Rec 34, 427–435 (1984). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03394885
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03394885