Measuring Electrodermal Activity in the Context of Shifting Reinforcement Contingencies

College

College of Arts and Sciences

Department

Psychology

Date

2-2025

Abstract

As Skinner argued, “the relation between an analysis of behavior as such and physiology is no problem. Each of these sciences has instruments and methods appropriate to part of a behavioral episode” (1987, p. 782). In this paper we describe an inductive study that emerged from an investigation of potential physiological correlates of operant behavior in the context of changes in reinforcement density. We measured the level and variability of electrodermal activity (EDA) in real time as participants experienced shifts in reinforcement contingencies, including three-phase resurgence tests and simple discrimination reversals. In Experiment 1, across-session contingency changes consistently resulted in increased levels of EDA compared to consecutive sessions without a contingency reversal. In Experiment 2, the level and variability of EDA were generally higher in the second session of 2-session blocks featuring changed contingencies, compared to blocks without a change.  Further investigation into the relation between physiology and operant behavior under shifting reinforcement contingencies is warranted. Technological advances have made such studies more accessible. These procedures may serve as a foundation for future research, ultimately leading to improved understanding of the intersections between physiological measures and operant behavior, and the development of approaches to enhance educational and therapeutic outcomes.

Original Citation

Zuchora, A., & Dickson, C. A. (2025). Measuring electrodermal activity in the context of shifting reinforcement contingencies. Experimental Analysis of Human Behavior Bulletin, 36, 59-72. https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/DZNG3

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