Invariance of operant topography throughout changes in motivational conditions.

Abstract
To determine the extent that distribution of responses established through reinforcement contingencies would be affected by motivational changes, 11 male rats were trained to manipulate a lever that could be displaced in any of 8 directions within a circular aperture. Both frequency (total number of contacts) and response topography (frequency of contact at various positions) were recorded. Groups were tested while experiencing (a) 0-44 hr. of food deprivation; (b) alternation between food and water deprivation; (c) 4-22 hr. of water deprivation; (d) differences in incentive quality-15%, 25%, and 45% sucrose solutions. Although total response frequency increased with increasing deprivation and incentive quality, recorded response topographies remained virtually invariant.