What is a Passive Avoidance Test?

The theory of passive avoidance is an associated learning theory based on fear motivation. The animal is subjected to a foot shock in a dark compartment which the animal would usually prefer over the light area. The passive avoidance test requires the animal to stop its standard response to the stimulus, inhibiting locomotion and exploration.

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What are the Two Types of Avoidance Learning

Avoidance learning is a term to describe when living beings learn an avoidance response to stop themselves from experiencing an unpleasant stimulus (usually an electrical shock). The reinforcement comes from results from not experiencing the punishment or negative stimulus. 1 Avoidance behavior tests are usually carried out on animals, most often rodents.

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What is a Shuttle Box Used for?

A shuttle box is a piece of apparatus that is used for animal learning experiments. The shuttle box is divided into two halves and the animal within is encouraged to move between the compartments to gain a reward or avoid a negative stimulus such as electric shocks. Sometimes there is a small barrier between the two compartments and the animal must jump over or push past to move between them[1].

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What Does Behavioral Neuroscience Research Entail?

Behavioral neuroscience research is the study of the brain, its functions, and how the nervous system guides behavior. Neuroscience is often considered to be separate from the body, however, the two are closely linked and behavioral neuroscience research aims to bridge that gap. This article will outline fields of behavioral neuroscience research, allowing for a greater understanding of the field.

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