Principles of behavioral pharmacology

This volume begins with critical reviews of recent advances in the design of specific behavioral measurements. Operant techniques, such as response patterns sustained by reinforcement or depressed by noxious stimuli, are discussed in depth. Direct observational methods for evaluating behavior are considered in terms of describing various elements of behavior and analyzing the sequential patterning of unconditioned behavior. The authors present a critique of the various experimental modes of abnormal behavior. The second part deals with general variables that modify drug effects on specific responses. These variables include: the changing responsiveness of the organism to a drug, particularly tolerance; the ontogeny of behaviorial patterns and the associated brain mechanisms; the social environment; and the genetic features of the animal studied.