Studies of Abnormal Behavior in the Rat: The Neurotic Pattern and an Analysis of the Situation Which Produces It

Description: First edition of Norman R. F. Maier’s early experimental study of abnormal and “neurotic” behavior in laboratory rats. Maier, of the University of Michigan, examines behavioral fixation, frustration, conflict, and the experimental conditions under which abnormal patterns of behavior develop. An important early contribution to experimental and comparative psychology, particularly the study of frustration, neurosis, and maladaptive behavior. Illustrated with numerous black-and-white photographic plates depicting laboratory apparatus, experimental situations, and behavioral responses in rats. Published by Harper & Brothers in 1939. 81 pages plus photographic plates and bibliography. Detailed Condition: Original reddish-brown cloth hardcover with gilt spine lettering. Cloth shows general rubbing, fading, scattered surface marks, and moderate wear, with fraying at the head of the spine and lighter wear at the foot and corners. Spine lettering remains readable. Page edges are age-toned. Binding remains sound. Interior is generally clean with normal age toning. Previous owner has written a brief reference note on the front free endpaper reading “‘Air’ alone produces Neurosis — pg 45,” along with a small handwritten symbol or mark. One page has a small penciled bracket in the margin; no other writing or marking was found during review. No dust jacket. Photographic plates remain clean and well preserved. A solid and uncommon first-edition copy of an interesting work in the history of experimental psychology and animal behavior. Shipping / Returns: Carefully packed and shipped with tracking. Thirty-day returns accepted in accordance with AbeBooks policies. PSYCH 3a.…