Choice Between Reinforcers With and Without Delayed Shock

TL;DRAbstract

Some problematic human behaviors can be conceptualized as choice of a large immediate reinforcer followed by a delayed aversive event, in lieu of a small immediate reinforcer and no delayed aversive event. For example, a night of binge drinking may result in ample social reinforcers and other fun in the short-term, but it is followed the next day by an intense hangover. Alternatively, opting for moderate alcohol consumption might not produce as intensely pleasing of an evening, but it avoids the aversive hangover. The aim of the present experiment was to develop an animal laboratory model for studying such choice situations. Rats could choose multiple pellets delivered immediately plus a delayed electric shock, or a single pellet delivered immediately. Using a titrating procedure, adjustments were made in the delay to shock based on the rat's choices. Exclusive choice of multiple pellets and shock decreased the delay in subsequent trials; exclusive choice of a single pellet increased t

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