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Discrete trials methodology was used to study the instrumental modification of elicited palmar SPRs in humans. Simple auditory stimuli defined the trials for a number of different reinforcement conditions. The data indicate that autonomic responses elicited by discrete stimuli can be facilitated by operant reinforcement, but there is no evidence for an inhibitory or suppressive effect. The specific contingency of reinforcement and response appears necessary to show the effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Avoidance of electric shock was used to manipulate skin potential changes elicited by a simple visual stimulus. Experimental and control Ss were matched on habituation trials and yoked for 40 acquisition and 10 extinction trials. During acquisition the avoidance Ss differentiated between stimulus and non-stimulus periods more reliably than the controls. During extinction the avoidance group produced significantly more criterion electrodermal responses, with greater magnitude of positive wave components, than the control group. Some of the problems of appropriate control procedures inherent in this design are examined in relation to these results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]