Depression of an instrumental response by a single devaluation of its outcome

Q J Exp Psychol B. 1992 Feb;44(2):123-36. doi: 10.1080/02724999208250606.

Abstract

In three experiments rats were trained to make two different instrumental responses for different outcomes. Then the outcomes were given a single differential conditioning experience with lithium chloride. That differential treatment was sufficient to produce differential instrumental responding in a subsequent test. Re-exposure to the devalued outcome was not necessary for an impact on instrumental performance.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Association Learning* / drug effects
  • Avoidance Learning* / drug effects
  • Chlorides / toxicity
  • Conditioning, Classical* / drug effects
  • Lithium / toxicity
  • Lithium Chloride
  • Male
  • Motivation*
  • Rats
  • Rats, Inbred Strains
  • Taste* / drug effects

Substances

  • Chlorides
  • Lithium
  • Lithium Chloride