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Extinction-induced mirror responding as a baseline for studying drug effects on aggression
Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and Behavior
|January 1, 1976
Summary
Chlordiazepoxide significantly reduced aggression in pigeons by suppressing extinction-induced mirror responding. This effect was observed during chronic treatment and reversed upon drug withdrawal, validating the model for aggression research.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral pharmacology
- Animal models of aggression
Background:
- Aggression is a complex behavior with significant implications for human and animal welfare.
- Developing objective and reliable methods to assess anti-aggressive drug effects is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of chlordiazepoxide in reducing extinction-induced aggression in pigeons.
- To establish extinction-induced mirror responding as a sensitive and reliable model for drug screening.
Main Methods:
- Pigeons were trained using a multiple schedule with reinforcement and extinction components.
- Aggressive behavior was measured as responding on a mirror during extinction periods.
- Chlordiazepoxide (5 mg/kg) or saline was administered prior to daily sessions.
Main Results:
- Chlordiazepoxide markedly decreased aggressive behavior without affecting key pecking.
- Aggression remained suppressed throughout the chronic drug administration period.
- Aggressive behavior returned to baseline levels after drug withdrawal.
Conclusions:
- Extinction-induced mirror responding in pigeons offers a stable and sensitive model for assessing drug effects on aggression.
- Chlordiazepoxide demonstrates selective anti-aggressive properties in this avian model.