Interocular transfer of a pattern discrimination in pattern deprived cats

Cats reared in darkness, but allowed periodic exposures to diffuse light, and control Ss that were reared with normal visual experience were tested for monocular pattern discrimination and subsequent interocular transfer of this learned discrimination. A simple discriminatory response (conditioned leg flexion) that did not require visual guidance by Ss was used. Deprived Ss required more trials than control Ss to learn the pattern discrimination. Deprived, as well as control Ss displayed good interocular transfer. Results are discussed in terms of Hebb's suggestions that ability to discriminate patterns as well as interocular transfer of pattern recognition, are dependent on previous experience with patterned visual stimulation.