Lithium effects on position learning with exploratory and aversive goal-box conditions.

Under conflict conditions in which reinforcement occurred within mildly aversive white goal-boxes, the chronic administration of lithium chloride (20 meg/l, in drinking water) to rats, while reducing avoidance of the goal boxes, impaired acquisition of an exploration-reinforced position discrimination. These results were interpreted as supporting the concept that lithium salts reduce the individual's reaction to general environmental stimulation--an effect which may account for its therapeutic action in the treatment of manic disorders.