Contiguous Approach Conditioning: A Model for Sidman Avoidance Learning

Abstract

The study sought to extend M. R. Denny's contiguous approach conditioning model of instrumental reinforcement effects to account for Sidman avoidance conditioning. Experimental subjects (rats) received a 15-sec. duration light which was paired, independently of the subject's behavior, with the nonoccurrence of regularly scheduled 1-ma. shocks. Controls received light and shock unpaired. All subjects were then tested in a simple T-maze for approach to the light. Groups did not differ significantly in the direction of their initial response (approach or nonapproach to the light) but did differ in latency of approach to the light. Further, a significantly higher proportion of experimental subjects than control subjects approached the light within the 15 sec. that had been the “safety” period during pairing. While these findings are largely consistent with Denny's theory, they might also be taken to support expectancy or informational interpretations of Sidman avoidance.