The rat's long-term preference for complexity in its environment (1975)

Denny, M. S.

Abstract

Single-housed rats demonstrated a marked preference for high complexity during 'day' conditions probably because spatial complexity elicited shelter/relaxation responses. Complexity seemed to reduce the arousal level of the subject. .... The most attractive compartment [of the test cage], in terms of approach and occupancy, evidences a high rate of resting which belies the notion of complexity is arousing the subject.