Cognitive mechanisms of source memory in rhesus monkeys (Maccaca mulatta) Open Access

Abstract

In humans, successful recognition of context relies on source memory. However, in rhesus monkeys, evidence for source memory is scant, and little is known about the underlying cognitive mechanisms that support how monkeys might discriminate between contexts. Thus, through a series of experiments, we aim to investigate memory processes supporting source memory in rhesus monkeys. In Experiment 1, monkeys were shown images associated with two contexts, separated with a five-minute interval. After each of the context 2 images, they were presented a recognition test, and were rewarded for selecting context 1 images. Across sessions, all monkeys showed a shift from selecting context 2images at test, to selecting the context 1 images. This result demonstrates a discrimination between contexts, akin to source memory. To assess the extent to which this discrimination is supported by active, working memory-like mechanisms, or a more passive familiarity judgement, follow-up experiments investigated how cognitive load, extended delay intervals between context 2 and recognition test, and amount of exposure for context 1 images impact selection accuracy. Results show extending the delay between context 2 and test disrupts monkeys’ performance. However, the exact roles of working memory, familiarity and recollection still remains to be further explored.

Table of Contents

Introduction.......................................................................................................................................1

Methods and Current Results………………………………………………………………………………………….........4

Subjects…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….4

Apparatus………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….4

Stimuli……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..4

Training……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………5

Experiment I……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..6

Experiment II…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….9

Experiment III………………………………………………………………………………………………………….11

Experiment IV………………………………………………………………………………………………………….12

General Discussion…………………………………………………………………………………………………………....15

Citations………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….22

Figures…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….27

About this Honors Thesis

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School	Emory College
Department	Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology
Degree	B.S.
Submission	Honors Thesis
Language	English
Research Field	Psychology, Behavioral Psychology, Cognitive
Keyword	Rhesus Macaque Memory Source Memory
Committee Chair / Thesis Advisor	Robert Hampton, Emory University
Committee Members	Ryan Brady, Emory University Michael Crutcher, Emory University Daniel Drane, Emory University

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