Optimality and concurrent variable-interval variable-ratio schedules

Article Abstract:

Melioration was compared to global optimality in rats' foraging behavior. Rats that underwent concurrent schedule training exhibited varying choices. On the average, their responses verified the matching principle which has been positively linked with melioration. However, pooled data from different sessions among varied rat subjects showed no increase in unsystematic variation. This result supported theories on the partial constriction of choice relation. Analysis of per visit data did not provide concrete support for melioration. Rather, results gave more support to optimization.

author: Aparicio, Carlos F., Baum, William M.
Psychological aspects, Food habits, Mathematical optimization, Optimization theory, Maxima and minima, Maxima and minima (Mathematics), Variational principles

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Determination of discount functions in rats with an adjusting-amount procedure

Article Abstract:

An adjusting-amount procedure was used to determine discount function by delay. The indifference points of eight rats were measured through experiments involving immediate and delayed amounts of water. Results show that constant hyperbolic discount functions could be attained within experimental conditions. Results also validated the usefulness of the procedure in measuring discount delay. The procedure can also be used for future studies in determining indifference point for several kinds of consequences.

author: Richards, Jerry B., Mitchell, Suzanne H., Wit, Harriet de, Seiden, Lewis S.
Apathy

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Synthesizing concurrent interval performances

Article Abstract:

Exposing rats to stay and switch variable-ratio schedules produced performances described by generalized matching law. This data was produced by performances for 2 alternatives with functionally unrelated contingencies.

author: MacDonnall, James S.
Matching theory

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subjects list: Research, Behavior, Rats
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