Adjustment to new reward: Simultaneous- and successive-contrast effects.

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Abstract
In 2 experiments, rats choosing between 2 rewards in a position discrimination experienced a change in either the quantity or quality of reward offered on the more favorable alternative (MFA) while reward on the less favorable alternative (LFA) was held constant. Experience with the LFA and MFA was equated throughout by interspersing forced trials among free choices. Before the reward shift, maximal choice of the MFA was attained more quickly the greater the reward there, and running speed to the LFA was inversely related, and more sensitive than MFA speed, to magnitude of reward on the MFA. After the reward shift, all response measures eventually adjusted to the level of the base line control, though speed on the LFA did not adjust as readily as MFA speed, and some tendency appeared for speed on the MFA to initially undershoot (not statistically significant) the appropriate level when reward was drastically reduced there.

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