Conditioning in the white rat. IV. The conditioned lid reflex.

Abstract

Conditioned eyelid responses were established by repeated combination of a buzz with a puff of air to the cornea. 4-7 sessions of 50 reinforcements were given to each of 4 white rats. Anticipatory conditioned lid responses occurred during the first reinforcements, reached an average frequency of 60% during the second session, and varied around that value thereafter. Analysis of daily records showed a decrease in responsiveness toward the end of each session, suggesting the development of inhibition. Extinction was not complete after 2 sessions. The results are similar to those reported for man, monkey, and dog. This response is easy to establish, in contrast to the foreleg withdrawal from shock.