| Abstract: | Manipulated task complexity differences in avoidance learning of genetically selected strains of rats under dextroamphetamine (1, 2, and 4 mg/kg, ip). 288 Ss from RHA/Lu, RLA/Lu, RCA/Lu, RHA by RLA, and RLA by RHA strains were studied. With decreasing levels of task complexity the differences in avoidance learning between the selectively bred strains decreased significantly. Under the lower levels of complexity the strains reversed their relative positions in avoidance learning. Results are discussed in terms of inverted-–U arousal function. The factors investigated in this study indicate that the differences in avoidance behavior of these lines of rats may be understood as deriving from genetically related different levels of arousal. (20 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved) |
