Memory retrieval and discrimination learning

A better reinforcement schedule may be associated with one exteroceptive stimulus (S+) than with another exteroceptive stimulus (S−). While all theories agree that performance in such discrimination tasks is affected by the reinforcement schedules associated with the exteroceptive S+ and S− cues, some theories suggest that performance is also affected by the reinforcement schedule associated with interoceptive reward produced cues. The two experiments reported here were concerned with identifying the conditions under which the interoceptive cues produced by nonreward come to affect performance. According to one hypothesis, such cues will acquire control over approach responding if animals make an approach response in their presence, but not otherwise. According to the memory hypothesis, the memory of nonreinforcement will become a signal for reinforcement, thus invigorating performance, if it is retrieved on a rewarded trial. In two experiments, two groups made strong approach responses to the nonreinforced cues on S− trials, but the memory of nonreward was better retrieved on a subsequent rewarded trial in one group than in the other. Subsequently, both groups were extinguished. The extinction findings support the memory view.     

Differential effectiveness of various prior-cuing treatments in the reactivation and maintenance of memory

In 3 experiments, changes were examined in the characteristics of newly acquired and reinstated memories over time in preweanling rats. Experiment 1 indicated that forgetting after conditioning was monotonic, with the upper limit of retention at approximately 120 min posttraining. In Experiment 2, Ss were exposed to various elements of the training episode before testing, after either a 3- or a 24-hr retention interval. The results indicated that the prior-cuing treatments were differentially effective and that the effectiveness of a reactivation treatment may change as a function of the retention interval. Experiment 3 indicated that Ss expressed a conditioned aversion at much longer intervals following reactivation treatments than after initial conditioning. Furthermore the susceptibility of the reinstated memory to forgetting was dependent on the prior-cuing treatment used. The results suggest a change in the memorial representation of the conditioning episode over time.     

Organ donation terminology: are we communicating life or death?

The continued functioning of organ transplantation depends on obtaining the permission of the next of kin. This communication process between medical or transplant professionals and a donor family hinges heavily on the understanding of certain critical terms like brain dead, life support, and transplantation. Communication issues in obtaining organ donation consent were examined, with particular focus on what are literally life-and-death decisions. Using an experimental simulation methodology, data are offered in support of the claim that much miscommunication occurs in such situations. Directions for improving such communication by allaying latent fears and more carefully defining crucial terminology are offered.     

Relationship of vocational maturity to work values

This study examined the relationship of vocational maturity to work values. Two hypotheses were tested: (1) Vocational maturity is positively related to differentiation of work values within subjects. (2) Vocational maturity is positively associated with intrinsic work values and negatively associated with extrinsic work values. Sixty-two subjects enrolled in remedial reading at a community college were administered the Vocational Development Inventory-Attitude Scale and the Work Values Inventory. Data analyses supported hypothesis 1 for females, but not for males, and partially supported hypothesis 2.