Title

Discrimination Reversal Learning in Capuchin Monkeys (Cebus apella)

Authors

Michael J. Beran, Georgia State UniversityFollow
Emily D. Klein
Theodore A. Evans, Georgia State UniversityFollow
Betty Chan
Timothy M. FlemmingFollow
Emily H. Harris
David A. Washburn, Georgia State UniversityFollow
Duane M. Rumbaugh, Georgia State UniversityFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2008

Abstract

Learning styles in capuchin monkeys were assessed with a computerized reversal- learning task called the mediationaJ paradigm. First, monkeys were trained to respond with 90% accuracy on a two-choice discrimination (A+B-). Then the authors examined differences in performance on three different types of reversal trials (A-B+, A-C+, B+C-), each of which offered differing predictions for performance, depending on whether the monkeys were using associative cues or rule-based strategies. Performance indicated that the monkeys mainly learned to avoid the B stimulus during training, as the A-C+ condition produced the best performance levels. Therefore, negative stimuli showed greater control over responding after reversal and reflected a more associative rather than rule-based form of learning.

Comments

This article was originally published in the journal The Psychological Record. Copyright © 2008 The Psychological Record.

The version of record is available here with the permission of the author and publisher.

Recommended Citation

Beran, M. J., Klein, E. D., Evans, T. A., Chan, B., Flemming, T. M., Harris, E. H., Washburn, D. A., & Rumbaugh, D. M. (2008). Discrimination reversal learning in capuchin monkeys (Cebus apella). The Psychological Record, 58(1), 3-14. Available at: http://opensiuc.lib.siu.edu/tpr/vol58/iss1/1/