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Spatiotemporal patterns of behavior produced by variable-interval schedules of reinforcement
Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior
|September 1, 1985
Summary
Pigeon behavior during reinforcement schedules showed distinct spatial patterns. These patterns, potentially superstitious behavior, reappeared during extinction after being shaped by variable-interval schedules.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral science
- Animal behavior
- Operant conditioning
Background:
- Understanding the spatial dynamics of behavior is crucial for analyzing reinforcement schedules.
- Pigeon key pecking is a common model for studying operant conditioning principles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the spatiotemporal patterns of pigeon behavior under different variable-interval (VI) reinforcement schedules and extinction.
- To determine if observed patterns constitute superstitious behavior.
Main Methods:
- Two pigeons' positions were continuously tracked in an experimental chamber.
- Behavior was recorded under a VI 15-second schedule, a VI 5-minute schedule, and extinction.
Main Results:
- VI 15-second schedule produced close-to-key patterns with post-reinforcement excursions.
- VI 5-minute schedule resulted in more extended, regular patterns between responses.
- Extinction led to the reappearance and gradual dissipation of previously learned patterns.
Conclusions:
- Spatiotemporal patterns are sensitive to changes in reinforcement schedules.
- The observed patterns during reinforcement and extinction may represent superstitious behavior in pigeons.
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