One group of rats (N = 89) was given avoidance learning training with electric shock reinforcement. A second group of 35 was equated with the first in terms of shock experience. Both groups, as well as 100 untreated controls, were then placed on terminal food and water deprivation; time in hours until death occurred was recorded. The untreated controls and shocked groups did not differ from each other, and both groups lived significantly longer than animals receiving avoidance learning. Certain parallels between these findings and those with monkeys were discussed.
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