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Choice between single and multiple delayed reinforcers.

Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior

|July 1, 1986

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Pigeons prefer choices with more reinforcers and shorter delays. A simple model accurately predicts this preference, showing that each reinforcer increases choice, but its effect lessens with delay.

Area of Science:

Behavioral science
Animal behavior

Background:

Pigeons' choices between delayed reinforcers are influenced by multiple factors.
Previous research suggested grouped reinforcers are key to preference.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate how pigeons choose between options with varying numbers and delays of reinforcers.
To test a model of choice behavior based on reinforcer quantity and delay.

Main Methods:

Pigeons pecked red or green keys with different reinforcer schedules.
Green-key delays were adjusted to find indifference points.
Data were analyzed using a quantitative model.

Main Results:

Indifference points decreased with more red-key reinforcers and shorter red-key delays.

Related Experiment Videos

Results contradicted the hypothesis that only closely grouped reinforcers affect preference.

A model based on reinforcer delay accurately predicted choices.

Conclusions:

Each reinforcer increases preference, with diminishing effects based on delay.
The overall rate of reinforcement did not significantly impact choice.
Delay discounting is a critical factor in pigeons' decision-making.