Configural learning without reinforcement: integrated memories for correlates of what, where, and when.
In 2 experiments we examined the ability of rats to form configural memories of what auditory stimulus (X or Y) was presented where (Context A or B) and when (morning or afternoon). In both experiments, rats received morning presentations of X in Context A and Y in Context B and afternoon presentations of X in B and Y in A. Subsequently, at midday the rats were exposed to trials where X was paired with footshock whereas Y was not. We then assessed the degree of contextual fear in A and B in the morning and the afternoon. In the morning, rats showed more fear in A than in B, and in the afternoon they showed more fear in B than in A. These results indicate that rats can form configural memories that represent what (X or Y) was presented, where (A or B), and when (morning or afternoon).
Iordanova
M D
MD
School of Psychology, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK. iordonovamd@cardiff.ac.uk
Good
M A
MA
Honey
R C
RC
D000204:Activity Cycles / Q000502:physiology*; D000818:Animals; D001362:Avoidance Learning / Q000502:physiology; D003216:Conditioning, Operant / Q000502:physiology*; D003463:Cues; D004777:Environment; D008297:Male; D008568:Memory / Q000502:physiology*; D051381:Rats; D012054:Reinforcement, Psychology