Abstract
Recent investigations of human and animal learning suggest that the conceptualization of alcoholism and its subsequent treatment might be appropriately based on an understanding of learning mechanisms which control feeding behaviour. Perhaps the most significant in this regard is the research concerning taste aversion and food avoidance. This research, particularly that related to modifying the feeding habits of predators and the management of alcoholism in humans by aversive conditioning, is described in detail in this review. The theoretical significance of the prolonged interval between the conditioned stimulus (the food or drink) and the aversive event and the insights that this research has provided on the notion of equipotentiality and generally of different aversive stimuli are discussed.
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Notes on contributors
J. Christopher Clarke
Both authors formerly Public Health Officers, Eastern Sydney Area Public Health Unit Previously general practitioner, Orange NSW, Australia.
John Garcia
Both authors formerly Public Health Officers, Eastern Sydney Area Public Health Unit Previously general practitioner, Orange NSW, Australia.