Continuous, Spontaneous Alternation in the Rat: Influence of Y-Maze Arm Times

Fifty-four male hooded rats were observed for two sessions, 8 min. each for continuous spontaneous alternation in a Y-maze. Subjects were found to alternate on 71% of all choices. Responsivity decreased during each session and a decided preference was shown for the initial placement arm regardless of its spatial position. Though arms per se did not affect alternation, the amount of time spent in previous arms differentially affected alternation depending on whether the subject was displaying alternation or non-alternation behavior during the preceding trials. Results are discussed in terms of their implications for stimulus satiation models of spontaneous alternation behavior.