Signal utilization under a discriminated avoidance schedule

Abstract

Four rats were trained under a temporally defined avoidance schedule composed of time period t†, during which responses had no programmed consequences, and tD, during which responses precluded shock. When a signal was programmed to last throughout tD and was response terminable, responses occurred primarily during the signal. A brief signal at the beginning, middle, or the end of the tD period had little effect on behavior. When the signal was programmed throughout tD, avoidance declined, and the response rate in tD was greater than when the signal was terminable by a response. © 1971, Psychonomic Journals, Inc.. All rights reserved.