Abstract
Self-punitive behavior was demonstrated in prepunishment speeds during extinction following shock-escape training in a straight runway under no-dose, low-dose (1-mg/kg), and high-dose (10-mg/kg) methylphenidate conditions. Increased dosage enhanced punished running (shock in the last half of the runway) and nonpunished running. Self-punitive behavior, defined as the difference between punishment conditions with faster running or increased persistence under punishment conditions, was not significantly affected by the drug variable. The results were interpreted as compatible with conditioned fear interpretations of self-punitive behavior but nonsupportive of cognitive interpretations.
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Kruger, B.M., Lavin, P.M., Campbell, P.E. et al. Some effects of methylphenidate on self-punitive running in rats. Bull. Psychon. Soc. 15, 171–174 (1980). https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03334499
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03334499