Contiguous conditioning.

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Abstract
Contiguous conditioning is represented by cage-turning CRs of cats to a tone CS. This CR is dependent upon a prior conditioning procedure in which each cage-turning response results in the sounding of the tone. Prior to the conditioning training the tone elicited no cage-turning responses. A control group, not given the tone CS, made the same number of responses in the rotator prior to the test for contiguous conditioning that the experimental group made during its training procedure. Tests with the tone CS presented when the S had been quiet for 30 sec. or more were given to all Ss. The frequency of CR of the experimental group was significantly greater than the frequency of response of the control group. The evidence of contiguous conditioning demonstrates that contiguity of stimulus and response is a sufficient condition for learning. The results are discussed relative to reinforcement as a necessary condition of learning, to the inherent confounding of any reinforcement operation with contiguity of stimulus and response, to sensory preconditioning, and to general theoretical considerations of learning.
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