Auditory intensity generalization after CER differentiation training

Abstract

Auditory intensity generalization was tested in 32 rats trained in CER (conditioned emotional response) differentiation between the 50- and 70-dB white noise intensities. All generalization gradients showed regular monotonicity across the noise intensity dimension independently on experience with the CS+ value prior to the differentiation training. Two kinds of peak shift were obtained. Stimuli further away from the CS? value and more intense than the CS+ inhibited the on-going food motivated behavior more strongly than the CS+ itself. Stimuli further away from the CS+ value and more intense than the CS? enhanced the on-going behavior more than the CS?. A method of statistical analysis indicated that individual gradients and group data corresponded to the same generalization functions.