Observations of Objectively Quantifiable Collateral Behavior of Thirteen-Lined Ground Squirrels (Spermophilus Tridecemlineatus) Produced on a Differential Reinforcement of Low Response Rates Schedule

Author

Gerald L. Whiteside, Fort Hays Kansas State College

Document Type

Thesis - campus only access

DOI

10.58809/NPRL5486

Date of Award

Summer 1974

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Biology

Advisor

Robert Slonaker

Abstract

Four thirteen-lined ground squirrels (Spermophilus tridecemlineatus) were trained on a DRL 20-sec schedule and given the opportunity to emit a mediating behavior (i.e., running in an activity wheel or manipulating a cork ball attached to a switch). All of the subjects used the manipulanda provided, allowing quantification of the mediating behavior. Results indicated that the number of mediating responses were correlated with the length of interresponse time (IRT) for all animals, and that similarities in the two mediating response data were present. These results are consistent with the theory that mediating behavior facilitates performance on a differential reinforcement of low response rates (DRL) schedule.

Comments

For questions contact ScholarsRepository@fhsu.edu

Recommended Citation

Whiteside, Gerald L., "Observations of Objectively Quantifiable Collateral Behavior of Thirteen-Lined Ground Squirrels (Spermophilus Tridecemlineatus) Produced on a Differential Reinforcement of Low Response Rates Schedule" (1974). Master's Theses. 1546.
DOI: 10.58809/NPRL5486
Available at: https://scholars.fhsu.edu/theses/1546

Rights

© 1974 Gerald L. Whiteside