Effect of deprivation level on responses to novel alleys in albino rats

Abstract

After learning to run an L-shaped alley for sucrose solution, male albino rats were presented novel alleys (N-alleys) in the same and opposite direction as the goal turn-off alley. Moderately water deprived Ss (MOD group) entered both types of N-alleys more frequently than highly deprived Ss (HI group). MODs also showed the typical exploration gradient, of entering alleys nearest the start box more frequently than those nearer to the goal. HIs, however, entered an N-alley on the goal side most frequently when it was nearest the goal. The results were interpreted as based on combined goal anticipatory and exploratory behavior.