Abstract
“Impulsivity” refers to the choice of an immediate, small reinforcer over a delayed, large reinforcer. Traditional operant methods (single-subject designs, free-operant choice procedures) have frequently been used to study impulsivity in nonhuman subjects but, curiously, have not been applied to humans. Data are reported replicating and extending previous results obtained with an alternative paradigm using a group-statistical design and discrete-trials choice procedure. Adults chose between schedules differing in delay and/or amount of reinforcement, the reinforcer being slides of entertainment and sports personalities. Delay was defined as the interval between a choice response and onset of a slide, amount as the duration of viewing time. Some participants exhibited impulsivity even though such behavior reduced total viewing time. All participants exhibited impulsivity when this behavior increased total viewing time and was thus adaptive. Traditional operant methods may be ineffective in producing the maladaptive form of impulsivity.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
