Punishment: Effects of Shock Intensity on Response Suppression

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Abstract
Punishment ordinarily suppresses concurrently reinforced behavior. The amount of suppression is related to intensity of punishment by the exponential equation, RI = Rne−0.10I. This equation describes the behavior of both rats and pigeons under very different methods of shock administration. Its generality may, however, be limited by (1) order of shock presentation and (2) amount of exposure to punishment. Recovery characteristically occurs immediately following withdrawal of punishment and, in some cases, even when the contingency is still in effect (mild punishment). At extremely high intensities, however, when concomitant emotional reactions may have been induced, response suppression may be permanent.

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