Effects of Shock Controllability on Subsequent Aggressive and Defensive Behaviors in the Cockroach (Periplaneta Americana)

Abstract

Male cockroaches ( Periplaneta americana) were exposed to either escapable, inescapable, or no shock in an escape task for three consecutive days. 24 hr. later they were placed individually in an aquarium with a naive cockroach and the frequency of aggressive behavior and defensive behavior was recorded by a blind observer. The inescapable shock group of cockroaches displayed less aggressive behavior and a greater tendency to retreat from social encounter than the escapable shock or no shock groups.