Effects of Alcohol Concentration on Choice and Persistence of Alcohol Seeking

This experiment examined the effects of alcohol concentration on response rate, persistence, and preference for alcohol. Rats responded for alcohol in a multiple schedule that delivered a 15% solution of alcohol in one component and a 5% solution of alcohol in the other component. Persistence of alcohol seeking was evaluated in extinction, and preference for alcohol concentrations was evaluated in a concurrent schedule wherein both solutions were available. Response rates were not different between multiple-schedule components correlated with different alcohol concentrations, but persistence was higher in the component associated with the 15% alcohol solution. Alcohol concentration did not reliably affect preference for alcohol solutions. The results are consistent with Behavioral Momentum Theory, which states that response rate and persistence are distinct aspects of behavior.