Abolition of the PRE by instructions in GSR conditioning.

Abstract

Eighty human Ss divided into 2 groups of CRF (continuous reinforcement) and 2 groups of 25% PRF (partial reinforcement) were used in a GSR (galvonic skin response) classical conditioning paradigm to test the discrimination hypothesis as an explanation of the PRE (partial reinforcement effect). Removal of the shock electrodes and instructions as to the onset of extinction was assumed to provide equalization of discriminability between the acquisition and extinction series for 1 PRF and 1 CRF group. A postexperimental inquiry for these Informed groups provided a test of discriminability independent of resistance to extinction. The results demonstrated the presence of the PRE in the Noninformed groups and its abolition in the Informed. The presence of a conditioned GSR during extinction in the Informed groups combined with the abolition of the PRE suggests a 2-component CR (conditioned response) characterized as a simple conditioned CR and a mediated CR.