An operant discrimination task allowing variability of reinforced response patterning

Five pigeons were trained to perform a discrimination task allowing variability of reinforced response patterning. The task consisted of moving a stimulus light within an 4×4 matrix of lights from the top left position to the bottom right position by pecking on two keys in succession in order to obtain a reinforcement. A peck on one key moved the light one position to the right and a peck on the other key moved it one position down. After preliminary training on alternating fixed-ratio 3 schedules of reinforcement, the birds could peck on either key in any order, but more than three responses on a key resulted in a blackout followed by the return of the stimulus light to the start position. Results indicate that initially the birds used a wide variety of response patterns to obtain reinforcement, but with continued practice, response patterns became more stereotyped.     

Selective attention in uncertain frequency detection1

Uncertain frequency detection of brief sinusoids in noise was studied in a special Yes-No paradigm that included single-frequency trials randomly interleaved with trials on which either of two frequencies could be presented. Contrary to implications from previous studies, and to sensory filter models of attention, the Os’ deliberate attempts to impose narrow- or wide-band listening had only a small effect on the relative detectability of signals at 500 Hz and at 1100 Hz. If frequency selectivity is to be understood as sensitivity adjustment (rather than as a recognition process), the relevant parameters may be entirely stimulus determined.     

An ultraflexible microminiature multilead electrode

Winding jig and construction details aregiven for a microminiature electrode for chronic small animal work. Electrode configuration is that of intermeshed helices. Increasing the number of leads does not affect bulk or flexibility.     

THE AVAILABILITY AND HELPFULNESS OF SOCIALIZATION PRACTICES

This study reports on the socialization practices most available to new employees and the extent to which these practices are seen by newcomers as being helpful in becoming effective organizational members. The results showed that socialization practices are differentially available to newcomers, and perceptions of their helpfulness vary. The helpfulness of various socialization practices as reported by newcomers appears to affect their feelings of subsequent job satisfaction and commitment.     

An analysis of public posting in reducing speeding behavior on an urban highway

The effects of public posting on speeding behavior on an urban highway were assessed using a reversal design. During baseline the percentage of drivers speeding was measured with a concealed radar unit. During the daily posting condition a highway sign was installed which provided feedback on the percentage of drivers not speeding yesterday and the best record to date. This sign was then covered and reintroduced. Results indicated that the sign was effective in reducing speeding behavior. Furthermore, the effects were most pronounced in reducing the speeds of the faster drivers. Next, daily and weekly postings were compared with the sign alone without numerical feedback: results revealed that the weekly posting condition was as effective as the daily posting condition, but that the sign had no influence when numbers were not posted. Finally, the weekly posting procedure remained effective during a 6-month follow-up condition.     

某些心理活动周期节律的实验研究

本研究对人的注意力水平和记忆活动的日周期节律做了初步探讨。 对18名13岁的住校学生(男10名,女8名),在每天上午8点、11点和下午4点,7点,共进行四次注意力水平的测定;在上午11点和下午4点进行两次记忆测定。 研究表明,人的注意力水平在一天中有明显的周期节律性变化。中午11点前后明显下降,下午回升,心理活动下午回升的现象,在记忆测验中也得到了证实。 个案分析表明,在注意力测验中符合上述规律的占全体被试的77.7%;记忆测验中占66.7%。 上述这种规律性现象的原因,尚有待进一步研究。