Behavioral Contrast in Albino Rats

Abstract

3 albino Wistar rats were trained in multiple variable-interval schedules of reinforcement. When reinforcement was withheld during one of the component schedules, the reduction in response rate during that component was accompanied by an increase in responding during the other (unchanged) component. This positive behavioral contrast was statistically significant for all three rats. The results are discussed in relation to interpretations of behavioral contrast based on autoshaping phenomena.