The delay-discounting task
The delay-discounting task we use is adapted from that first designed by Evenden and Ryan (1996). Each session typically lasts 100 minutes and consists of five blocks of 12 trials, each lasting 100 seconds. Each block begins with a pair of forced choice trials which consists of one presentation of the left lever and one […]
Five hole box
The five-hole box is an operant chamber which is fitted with an array of five response apertures into which the rat can make a “nosepoke” response. Each hole can also be illuminated by a stimulus light located inside it which often signals to the rat when a nosepoke response is required. Such nosepokes are detected […]
The five-choice serial reaction time task
The five-choice serial reaction time task (5CSRTT) was originally developed by Trevor Robbins’ group in the 1980s. It is one of the most well established and best characterised operant behavioural tests in use today. Testing takes place in five-hole boxes. Rats are trained to scan the array of five response apertures and to respond by […]
Our research
We are exploring the neural, neurochemical and molecular basis of higher-order cognitive processes such as impulse control and gambling. Our work combines molecular biology techniques with neuropsychopharmacology and cognitive behavioural testing in rodents.
Q & A with Catharine Winstanley: How the mind works when gambling
Tiny ‘rat casino’ offers insight into brain and possible treatments for compulsive gambling UBC Psychology Prof. Catharine Winstanley’s work on gambling addictions will be a highlight of the new Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, a major new research and clinical facility that recently opened at UBC. In 2009, Winstanley’s Laboratory of Molecular and Behavioural Neuroscience […]
Scientists reduce behaviours associated with problem gambling in rats
A UBC study involving a “rat casino” may shed light on compulsive gambling behaviours in humans. With the help of a rat casino, University of British Columbia brain researchers have successfully reduced behaviours in rats that are commonly associated with compulsive gambling in humans. The study, which featured the first successful modeling of slot machine-style […]