Function transformation without reinforcement

Article Abstract:

Function-transformation effects are reported in the absence of selection responses and of their reinforcers. In three experiments with college students, exposure to relations of difference or identity modified the responses given to later stimuli and the data are consistent with the notion that relations of identity or difference can serve as stimuli for Pavlovian processes, and, in compound with other cues, produce apparent function-transformation effects.

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Preference between variable-ratio and fixed-ratio schedules: local and extended relations

Article Abstract:

A minimum variable-ratio component generates strong preferences for the variable schedule of reinforcement over a fixed schedule in pigeons. An enhancement in this component leads to its reduced preference. Pigeons behave in a nonoptimal manner when exposed to variable-ratio distributions, with respect to response expenditure. This behavior continues for a number of sessions within a phase and across successive phases.

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Changing behavior within session: cyclicity and perseverance produced by varying the minimum ratio of a variable-ratio schedule

Article Abstract:

Pigeons whose schedules of reinforcement were subject to cycling patterns showed the descending series portion was the more significant factor in determining cyclicity. Many researchers emphasize the universality of the rise-and-fall pattern of response, but this research suggests response rates also change according to the minimum component ratio.

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