Aversive and amnesic effects of electroconvulsive shock.

Abstract

200 rats were placed on a small platform once daily. Half were shocked (Sh) for stepping off and half (NSh) were not. 4 subgroups within each condition were given an ECS [electroconvulsive shock] at different intervals following the trial. 2 control groups were not given ECS. In the Sh groups avoidance learning (remaining on the platform) was best with longer trial-ECS intervals. In the NSh groups avoidance learning was obtained with the short trial-ECS intervals, but the degree of avoidance was poor in comparison with the Sh groups. The findings suggest the ECS produces amnesia for events preceding the treatment but that fear develops with repetitive treatments.