A machine-level software program for the generation of aversive conditioning schedules using the KIM-1 microprocessor

A microprocessor system can be used both to control aversive conditioning (classical, signaled and Sidman avoidance, and conflict) experiments and to acquire behavioral data in multiple subjects at a fraction of the cost of solid state systems. The software described in this paper can be used to program tones and shocks and count responses, independently, in up to 12 animals simultaneously.     

A microprocessor control system and solid state interface for controlling electrophysiological studies of conditioning

This paper describes a microprocessor control system and solid state interface for controlling the apparatus in combined behavioral-electrophysiological studies of conditioning. The computer program, which is designed to control classical conditioning of the rabbit’s nictitating membrane response, provides the flexibility to control all conditioning parameters (e.g., interstimulus and intertrial intervals, trial type, and sequence of trial types) with only minor modifications. The system is free from artifacts that can distort electrophysiological recordings and can easily be modified to accommodate other behavioral paradigms in which electrophysiological responses are recorded.     

A microcomputer interface for applications requiring large numbers of subjects

While most small microcomputers are powerful enough to control intricate experiments, a major limitation of many is their limited I/O capability. An interface for the KIM-1 or similar small microcomputer is described that provides for up to 128 or more inputs. The basic components of the interface are a series of shift registers through which the incoming data are manipulated and read by the microcomputer. Provisions are also made to latch the incoming data, allowing detection of very high rates of or even simultaneous data input. The interface is modular in design and can be expanded by increments of eight inputs. Use of the system to monitor a large number of running wheels is discussed.     

An aversive conditioning unit for ants

An apparatus is described for studying aversive conditioning in ants. The aversive stimulus is mechanically produced vibration. Responses are recorded automatically by an infrared photocell system.     

Punishment vs negative reinforcement in the aversive conditioning of auditory hallucinations1

The behavioural treatment of auditory hallucinations in three chronic schizophrenic patients is reported. Two treatment conditions, one in which white noise followed hallucinations and a second in which white noise was presented during reported hallucinations, were contrasted in a crossover design with a control condition where white noise was presented randomly. All three patients improved, although reported reductions in hallucinations were more marked in two cases than in the third. Some generalization of treatment effects was observed in all three patients. White noise presented concurrently with hallucinatory reports appeared to be the most effective. The implication of these findings for a theory of auditory hallucinations is discussed.     

An improved apparatus for the aversive conditioning of cigarette smokers

An apparatus is described which permits the presentation of an aversive stimulus (smoke) and a reinforcing stimulus (fresh air) in such a way that it is possible to control their respective latencies and durations. Verbal stimuli may also be presented conjointly with the aversive and reinforcing stimuli. This apparatus was designed to overcome the shortcomings in previous investigations by permitting a more systematic approach to the study of the factors relevant to successful behaviour therapy with addicted smokers. Nine subjects completed a course of aversive conditioning and four were found to be totally abstinent after 6 months follow-up. The weaknesses of the present technique are pointed out and possible improvements briefly noted. In particular, a “broad spectrum” behavioural approach to smoking is advocated.     

A two-phase model account of aversive classical conditioning performance in humans and rabbits

A two-phase model was applied to classical conditioning performance in man and rabbits. During phase 1, response probability remained constant. During phase 2, response probability generally increased, although one operator was sufficient for a majority of Ss and two operators were required for a minority of Ss. The latter Ss exhibited increases in responding after a CR trial and decreases in responding after a non-CR trial. The pattern of parameters was similar for man and rabbits. In man, increases in UCS intensity resulted in a decrease in the duration of phase 1 and an increase in the limit of the operators for those Ss requiring more than a single operator to describe performance during phase 2. The value of employing a model to describe the data and understand the effects of independent variable manipulation was discussed.     

Constraints on Pavlovian aversive conditioning: Implications for avoidance learning in the rat

Four experiments investigated the relative degree of control exerted by several conditional stimuli when each stimulus: (a) preceded shock, (b) followed shock, and preceded a shock-free interval, (c) was independent of shock, or (d) was novel. When the onset of an auditory stimulus had preceded shock (Experiments 1, 2A, and 3), it always exerted conditioned excitatory control. When the same stimulus preceded a shock-free interval, it never exerted conditioned inhibitory control. When the onset of light (Experiments 2B, 4), silence (2C), or darkness (1, 2D) preceded a shock-free interval, it always exerted conditioned inhibitory control. However, when one of the latter stimuli preceded shock, it failed to exert excitatory control. Several models of this phenomenon were tested. The implications of these results for the species-specific defence reaction and two-factor theory accounts of avoidance learning were outlined.     

An apparatus for behavioral and physiological study of aversive conditioning in cats and kittens

An apparatus for aversive conditioning of adult cats and kittens is described. Animals are held by a cloth harness and head restraint device in a metal frame with a movable treadmill floor. They are supported in a natural standing position, with freedom to flex and move each leg and to walk or run on the treadmill. Various transducers record respiration, EKG, vocalization, leg flexion, and locomotion on the treadmill.     

A comparison of positive and negative (aversive) conditioning in the treatment of homosexuality

A variety of techniques based upon learning theory were applied in the treatment of a male homosexual patient. The experimental results point to the overwhelming importance of aversive techniques for the treatment of this condition when compared with non-aversive techniques. The discussion draws attention to the inappropriateness of the medical concepts of cure and relapse in behavioural manipulations involved in behaviour therapy.     

Count-sampling circuits for heart-rate conditioning and other applications

Simple count-sampling circuits are described for the study of heart-rate conditioning and other applications. The configurations are relatively inexpensive and easy to build.