Activation of domestic chicks.

Given prior results showing reinforcement effects for contingent light onset in day-old Leghorn chicks, the present series of studies examined effects of noncontingent light presentation using the same operant as an index of activity. Ss were a total of 641 White Leghorn cockerel chicks between 24-36 hrs old. Results show a strong, consistent topography of activity which depended upon the same parameters known to influence reinforcement effects in these Ss. Activation is suggested as a process and a means for prediction or reinforcement effects-particularly when the topography of activation is compatible with behavioral requirements of a reinforcement contingency. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)