Exploiting Individual Differences in Cue-Reward Learning to Uncover the Neural Circuits That Contribute to Psychopathology

The way in which an individual responds to their surrounding environment may be a key determinant of psychopathology. In rodents, a Pavlovian cue that precedes food delivery acquires predictive value for some individuals (goal-trackers), eliciting a conditioned response directed towards the food cup, whereas for others (sign-trackers) it acquires both predictive and incentive value, eliciting approach towards the cue itself. The latter form of incentive learning transforms cues into motivational magnets, enabling them to gain inordinate control and promote maladaptive behavior.