Abstract
Four groups of male albino rats received the same number of reinforcements of 0.1 cc maltose solution in a Skinner box. Three of these groups received their reinforcement contingent upon pressing a bar weighted at 20 gm, 50 gm, and 80 gm respectively. The fourth group received reinforcements noncontingent upon the bar press. A control group received noncontingent reinforcements of 0.1 cc distilled water. Following training, all five groups were given a cafeteria-style preference test in which the same maltose solution, used as a reinforcer, was available along with an alternative solution of sucrose. The consumption measures indicated a linear decline in Ss’ preference for the reinforcer, as a function of increased effort expenditure.
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The writer wishes to thank Dr. John A. Ceraso for his helpful suggestions.
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Cristal, R.M. Effects of variable effort expenditure on subsequent preference for the reinforcer. Psychon Sci 5, 41–42 (1966). https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03328269
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03328269