Appropriateness of reinforcement to cue in the conditioning of food aversions in chickens (Gallus gallus).

Abstract

Tested 30 young Rhode Island and White Rock chickens for preferences between 2 flavors and 2 colors of mash to determine whether acceptance of foods differing in taste only could be changed by adding colors during training. Experimental Ss were shocked on consumption of their preferred flavor (regardless of color), while yoked controls received shock simultaneously with their experimental pairs but in the absence of food; other controls ate without shock. Finally, posttraining tests of flavored foods alone were given. Food preferences based on taste were lowered for both experimentals and yoked controls. Results are considered in terms of the possible mediation of cues, although the apparent general effects of the shock provide difficulties for this interpretation. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved)