Related Experiment Videos
Choice with certain and uncertain reinforcers in an adjusting-delay procedure
1Psychology Department, Southern Connecticut State University, New Haven, Connecticut 06515, USA.
Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior
|July 1, 1996
Summary
Pigeons sometimes prefer partial reinforcement over 100% reinforcement, but this preference is inconsistent. Equating stimulus variability largely eliminated the effect, suggesting color or variability preferences may be responsible.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Psychology
- Animal Cognition
- Operant Conditioning
Background:
- Previous studies suggest pigeons may prefer partial reinforcement over 100% reinforcement.
- Understanding reinforcement schedules is crucial for behavioral analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate conditions for pigeon preference for partial over 100% reinforcement.
- Determine the role of stimulus variability and color preference in this effect.
Main Methods:
- Used a discrete-trials adjusting-delay procedure with pigeons.
- Adjusted delay durations to find indifference points between reinforcement schedules.
- Varied houselight colors and reinforcement schedules (100% vs. partial).
Main Results:
- A preference for partial reinforcement was found in some pigeons, but not all.
- This preference was largely eliminated when stimulus color variability was equated.
- Individual differences in color or variability preference may influence results.
Conclusions:
- Pigeon preference for partial reinforcement is not universal and depends on experimental conditions.
- Stimulus properties like color and variability can significantly impact reinforcement preference.
- Further research needed to explore idiosyncratic factors in animal decision-making.