Laboratory animal research are attempts to fill some gaps left by the methodology used with humans about behavioral phenomena that follow radiation exposure. This work deals with studies about behaviors maintained by different operant contingencies and radiogenic variables such as radiation dosage. The characteristic effects observed under simple reinforcement schedules show a reduction in response rates. These effects are, however, dose-dependent and interact with other variables such as type of baseline, response rate during baseline and type of reinforcer. Furthermore, under concurrent schedules the effects are selective according to the schedule components. Data obtained with repeated acquisition procedures indicate also an interaction of radiation with the type of task involved. Implications of laboratory animal studies for the understanding of observed behavioral manifestations in individuals exposed to radioactive events are discussed.
ionizing radiation; operant contingencies; behavioral toxicology
