The effect of frustrative nonreward on the attractiveness of the omitted reward |
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Authors: | E.A Gaffan Stephanie Keeble |
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Affiliation: | Department of Psychology, University of Reading England |
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Abstract: | Two experiments were performed to test the hypothesis that omission of a previously received reward is followed by greater motivation to obtain that specific reward, as compared with the case where the reward had been present. In Experiment 1, experimental rats regularly received food rewards (Ra) at one goal, followed by a choice between food and milk (Rb). Control animals received the same choice without food preceding it. Reward magnitudes were manipulated so as to produce a preference for Rb, and additional forced trials were given each day to equalise experience of the two rewards. In the test phase both groups received trials with Ra present (R) or absent (N) at the first goal. The experimental Ss shifted their choice towards Ra on N trials; the controls did not behave differently after R and N. Experiment 2 was similar, except that Ra was milk and Rb food. The same effect of N on experimental animals was obtained. It is argued that the results are relevant to the double-runway ‘frustration effect’, and cannot be explained by existing theories of frustration. |
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Keywords: | Reprint requests should be addressed to E. A. Gaffan Department of Psychology University of Reading Whiteknights Reading RG6 2AL England. |
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