Self-punitive behavior: Effects of number of massed acquisition trials and percentage of goal-shocked extinction trials

Abstract

Using a massed trials procedure, rats were given 6, 12, or 24 shock escape acquisition trials in a runway, followed by extinction in which they received no further shock anywhere in the alley, or shock in the goalbox on 0%, 10%, or 100% of extinction trials. Results indicate that number of acquisition trials had no effect on run or start speeds during extinction. Percentage of shocked extinction trials did, however, affect extinction performance measures. In comparison with nonshocked controls, animals shocked on 10% of trials showed facilitation of extinction response measures. Extinction response measures for animals not shocked or shocked on 100% of trials were similar. The results further clarify what variables affect goal-shock-induced facilitation of extinction performance, and are discussed in the context of current theoretical interpretations of self-punitive behavior.