Locus of semantic generalization of the galvanic skin response and possible inhibitory influence of conditional stimuli upon unconditional response following conditioning with innocuous and noxious unconditional stimuli.

Abstract

Two different problems were investigated using the GSR index of the orienting reflex (OR): 1) the locus of semantic generalization; and 2) a possible inhibitory influence of the CS upon the UCR. Two experiments were conducted. One experiment employed an innocuous USC, and a second similar experiment used a loud noise as the UCS. Unidirectional word associates were employed in the test of the direction of semantic generalization. Constant and varying CS words were used to test the possible inhibitory influence of the CS upon the UCR. Evidence was obtained of semantic generalization occurring in the training and in the test situation. There was no evidence of the CS developing inhibition over the UCR. Theoretical interpretation of both phenomena were considered. The need for developing theories of conditioning of the OR in humans was emphasized in contrast to current efforts to apply inappropriate cognitive animals learning theories which fail to consider biologic constraints.