Children'S Discrimination Learning Based on Identity or Difference1

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Discrimination learning with identity and difference as relevant cues is a clear example of relational learning. Correctness of choice depends not upon absolute stimulus values but upon the relation between a stimulus and others of the display. To demonstrate successful solution of the problem, a subject must continue to respond correctly when specific elements of the display are replaced or their reward values reversed. An extensive literature on how children learn such problems is now available. Thus, this chapter evaluates this evidence with respect to the developmental theories.

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    1

    Preparation of this paper was supported by Research Grant M-1099 to David Zeaman and Betty J. House, Research Grant MH-20195 to Marcia S. Scott, Research Grant HD-06864 to Ann L. Brown, and a Program Project Grant HD-05951 to Marcia S. Scott and Ann L. Brown. All funds were provided by the National Institute of Mental Health, United States Public Health Service.

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