Abstract
A retroactively interfering reversal habit, a left or right turn in a single-unit water maze, was learned by 28 rats. The interpolated habit was immediately followed in 14 of the animals by a single electroshock convulsion. Reliable “interference with retroactive interference” was found: shock animals were superior in demonstrating retention of original learning. This finding is discussed with reference to major behavioral theories of ECS and interpreted as being more nearly supportive of amnesic, as opposed to fear-induction or competing-response, mechanisms.
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This study was supported by 8200 Research Funds from the U.S. Veterans Administration. Mrs. Kay Wahl and Mr. Harold Bowen of the V. A. Hospital’s medical illustration service are warmly acknowledged for their preparation of the figures.
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Justesen, D.R., Brauchi, J.T., Dodd, D.H. et al. Attenuation of retroactive inhibition by a single electroconvulsive shock. Psychon Sci 17, 43–45 (1969). https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03329159
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03329159