Abstract
Probability learning to escape from shock was investigated in 36 female albino rats. The independent variable was the intensity of shock. All Ss were run in a T-maze using a correction procedure. One side of the T, (A1), was shock-free with probability, π =.667 while the other (A2) side was shock-free with probability (1 - π) =.333. The major findings were: (a) p(A1) exceeded π increasingly with increasingly severe shock, (b) positive recency was present throughout training and (c) response speed increased with increasing shock levels and was greater to the A1 than the A2 side.
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This study was,conducted as a part of the senior author’s class in learning. Funds for purchase of animals and supplies were supplied by the Department of Psychology, Yale University.
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Cole, M., Belenky, G.L., Boucher, R.C. et al. Probability learning to escape from shock. Psychon Sci 3, 127–128 (1965). https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03343056
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03343056