Abstract
In experiment 1, six cats were trained in a two-way conditioned avoidance response (CAR) and then received lesions aimed at the mammillothalamic tracts (MTT). Avoidance decrements following MTT lesions were not related to changes in freezing behavior. In experiment 2, four cats were trained in the CAR and then given intensive fear conditioning (pairing of buzzer and unavoidable foot shock). On subsequent CAR test sessions, avoidance latencies for trials on which the buzzer was added were significantly (p <.01) shorter than on trials without the buzzer. Thus, a stimulus (the buzzer) capable of eliciting fear and freezing much stronger than that seen following MTT lesions actually facilitated the CAR (reduced avoidance latencies). This and the results of experiment 1 do not support the hypothesis that avoidance decrements following MTT lesions are attributable to increased fear or freezing.
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This research was supported by Research Grant 10885 from the National Science Foundation to the Biophysical Research Laboratory, University of Illinois and by Research Grant MY 647 from the National Institute of Mental Health to Yale University.
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Krieckhaus, E.E., Chi, C.C. Role of freezing and fear in avoidance decrements following mammillothalamic tractotomy in cat: I. Two-way avoidance behavior. Psychon Sci 4, 263–264 (1966). https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03342287
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03342287