Which experimental procedure would best establish that Ps differ from controls only in avoidance learning?

• A. Comparing Ps and controls on a memory recall task
• B. Administering a monetary reward for correct responses on a word-learning task
• C. Measuring reaction times in an emotional recognition task
• D. Observing responses to fear-inducing pictures

Answer: (B)

To establish that individuals with a particular condition (referred to as "Ps" in this case) differ from control subjects solely in avoidance learning, it is crucial to design an experiment that specifically targets avoidance behavior rather than other cognitive or emotional processes.

Administering a monetary reward for correct responses on a word-learning task effectively isolates the variable of interest. This approach assesses learning and memory capabilities independent of any emotional or avoidance conditioning. By providing incentivization in a task that does not rely on avoidance learning, the experiment can focus solely on the competence in recalling previously learned information, thereby ensuring that any differences observed between Ps and controls are not attributable to differences in learning processes unrelated to avoidance.

In contrast, the other procedures could introduce confounding variables or assess different constructs that may not relate directly to avoidance learning. For instance, measuring reaction times in an emotional recognition task or observing responses to fear-inducing pictures could engage emotional and cognitive processes that are not exclusively related to avoidance learning. Similarly, comparing performances on a memory recall task might highlight differences in memory capabilities that aren't specifically linked to avoidance behavior.

Thus, using a word-learning task with a monetary reward is the most effective means of examining differences in avoidance learning, ensuring that any observed outcomes directly relate to the