A review is presented of a number of studies with schizophrenics in which noxious and positive reinforcements have been employed. The results of these studies indicate that the greatest degree of performance facilitation among schizophrenics occurs under conditions of response-contingent noxious reinforcement. Consideration is also given to some of the sampling weaknesses and other methodological difficulties involved in this type of research with schizophrenics and in research on schizophrenia in general. In addition, some of the important parameters of noxious reinforcement are outlined, primarily in terms of their relevance to research with schizophrenics, and suggestions made as to future avenues of research in this area.
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