An Automated Apparatus for the Avoidance Training of Rats

Abstract

An apparatus and procedure for the avoidance training of rats is described. 22 rats were trained in the apparatus, and the rapidity of learning was contrasted with that of previously-used automated apparatuses. The new technique prevented many major problems associated with traditional avoidance procedures, both automated and manual.

Shuttle avoidance: Rapid acquisition by rats to a pressurized air unconditioned stimulus

“…The criticisms of shuttle-avoidance training have been that animals learn it slowly (Baum, 1965) and too few learn it at all (Bindra, 1961). Shuttle-avoiding to airblast, however, is not acquired slowly, but four to 30 times faster than electric shock avoidance (Vanderwolf, 1963;Theios, 1963 represent the range of electric shock data).…”

Methods of deconditioning persisting avoidance: Drugs as adjuncts to response prevention

“…Baum (1970a) was among the first to systematically test methods for deconditioning persisting avoidance. Using rats and an automated one-way avoidance apparatus, Baum (1965Baum ( , 1970a established avoidance, terminated the footshock used to establish the avoidance, and then observed the persistence of avoidance beyond termination of footshock . Between termination of footshock and testing for persistence of avoidance, various treatments were programmed.…”

Acquisition of a jumping avoidance response in hamsters

“…A direct comparison of these results with those of Baum (1965) is difficult because of differences between the experiments. His animals (rats) were run until they reached a criterion of 10 consecutive avoidances.…”

“…In view of the hamster's predilection toward climbing it was felt that the procedure described by Baum (1965) might be useful in obtaining avoidance conditioning. Pilot work indicated that an avoidance response was readily, and rapidly, acquired in this apparatus.…”