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Arousal, changeover responses, and preference in concurrent schedules.
Margaret A McDevitt1, Ben A Williams
1Department of Psychology, McDaniel College, Westminster, Maryland 21157, USA. mmcdevit@mcdaniel.edu
Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior
|February 18, 2004
Summary
Pigeons preferred schedules paired with longer intervals, even when reinforcer rates were equalized. Reinforcer magnitude also influenced preference, but not changeover responding, indicating preference isn't solely based on switching behavior.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral psychology
- Animal behavior studies
- Operant conditioning principles
Background:
- Concurrent schedules of reinforcement involve choices between simultaneously available schedules.
- Previous research suggests pigeons may prefer schedules associated with longer interreinforcement intervals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate pigeon preference between concurrent schedules of reinforcement.
- To examine the role of reinforcer magnitude and interval length on preference.
- To determine if preference reflects changeover responding patterns.
Main Methods:
- Pigeons were trained on concurrent variable-interval (VI) schedules with varying interval lengths and reinforcer durations.
- Probe tests were used to measure preference between associated stimuli.
- Reinforcer rates were manipulated and equated in some conditions.
- Response rates and changeover responding were recorded.
Main Results:
- Pigeons showed a preference for the VI 40-s schedule paired with a VI 80-s schedule over one paired with a VI 20-s schedule.
- Equating overall reinforcer rates did not alter this preference.
- Larger reinforcer magnitudes (6-s access) led to higher response rates and were preferred.
- Changeover responding rates were not affected by reinforcer magnitude.
Conclusions:
- Pigeon preference in concurrent schedules is influenced by factors beyond simple changeover behavior.
- The duration of the associated interval and reinforcer magnitude play significant roles in preference.
- Findings challenge the assumption that preference directly mirrors switching patterns.