Adult age-related differences in appetitive and aversive associative learning

Abstract

This study investigated age differences in appetitive and aversive associative learning using a Pavlovian conditioning paradigm. Appetitive and aversive associative learning is the process by which an initially neutral cue is systematically paired with an aversive or appetitive outcome, eventually itself prompting aversive or appetitive responses. Mimicking the motivational shift from a primary gain orientation in young adulthood toward a stronger orientation toward loss prevention in old age, we expected older adults to learn associa Show more