Traumatic avoidance learning: the effects of CS-US interval with a trace-conditioning procedure.
- 1 January 1954
- journal article
- research article
- Published by American Psychological Association (APA) in Journal of Comparative and Physiological Psychology
- Vol. 47 (1) , 65-72
- https://doi.org/10.1037/h0061380
Abstract
The effects of CS-US interval on avoidance learning were explored by training dogs in a shuttle box with CS-US intervals of 5, 10, 20, and 40 sec. (trace-conditioning). Within the span of intervals tested, the briefer CS-US intervals led to: more rapid acquisition of the avoidance response; more resistance to extinction of the avoidance response; shorter latency of the avoidance response; fewer spontaneous, intertrial responses; and a more focalized pattern of emotional behavior, with less general agitation and less gastrointestinal upset. Data from control groups discount sensitization as an important factor, also indicate no diffuse emotional agitation when shock is not preceded by a CS. Implications for theories of avoidance learning and of anxiety were suggested.Keywords
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