| Comparing pleasure and pain: the fundamental mathematical equivalence of reward gain and shock reduction under variable interval schedules. | |
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MedLine Citation:
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PMID: 23144510 Owner: NLM Status: In-Data-Review |
Abstract/OtherAbstract:
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The relationship between positive and negative reinforcement and the symmetry of Thorndike's law of effect are unresolved issues in operant psychology. Here we show that, for a given pattern of responding on variable interval (VI) schedules with the same programmed rate of food rewards (positive reinforcement VI) or electric shocks (negative reinforcement VI), there is a fundamental mathematical equivalence between reward gain and shock reduction. We also provide the first normative account of how animals should respond on a negative VI schedule, showing that it is better to space responses evenly than to respond with a variable interresponse time (IRT). Published data from rats, however, indicate that these animals respond irregularly, often with a burst of activity immediately following a shock. While this is irrational in the experimental setting, it may represent an appropriate response to the heterogeneity of stimuli commonly encountered in natural environments. We discuss the broader implications of our analysis for understanding how animals evaluate appetitive and aversive stimuli. |
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Authors:
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Dave E W Mallpress; Tim W Fawcett; John M McNamara; Alasdair I Houston |
Publication Detail:
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Type: Journal Article |
Journal Detail:
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Title: Journal of the experimental analysis of behavior Volume: 98 ISSN: 1938-3711 ISO Abbreviation: J Exp Anal Behav Publication Date: 2012 Nov |
Date Detail:
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Created Date: 2012-11-12 Completed Date: - Revised Date: - |
Medline Journal Info:
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Nlm Unique ID: 0203727 Medline TA: J Exp Anal Behav Country: United States |
Other Details:
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Languages: eng Pagination: 355-67 Citation Subset: IM |
Affiliation:
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MODELLING ANIMAL DECISIONS (MAD) GROUP, SCHOOL OF BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES, UNIVERSITY OF BRISTOL, ENGLAND. |
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From MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine
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