Abstract
Rats were trained in the discrete-trial operant apparatus with single alternation of large reward and small reward or large reward and nonreward. followed by either transfer or extinction. The results showed that both groups acquired appropriate response patterning, that patterning is conditioned, and that the stimuli which control patterning are derived from reward conditions on immediately preceding trials. A modification of the sequential hypothesis of instrumental learning was proposed to account for the results.
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Supported by National Institute of Mental Health Grant 1 R03 MH-14174-01.
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Bloom, J.M., Williams, D.T. & Metze, L.P. Effects of varied and partial reward on discrete-trial patterning of rats. Animal Learning & Behavior 1, 167–170 (1973). https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03199067
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03199067