Impairments in reinforcement learning do not explain enhanced habit formation in cocaine use disorder

• DOI: 10.1007/s00213-019-05330-z
• Publication Date: 2019-08-01T05:20:32Z
• Authors: T. V. Lim; R. N. Cardinal; G. Savulich; P. S. Jones; A. A. Moustafa; T. W. Robbins; K. D. Ersche
• Keywords: Stimulant; Habit; Automaticity

Drug addiction has been suggested to develop through drug-induced changes in learning and memory processes. Whilst the initiation of drug use is typically goal-directed hedonically motivated, over time, drug-taking may into a stimulus-driven habit, characterised by persistent irrespective consequences. Converging lines evidence suggest that stimulant drugs facilitate transition habitual drug-taking, but their contribution less clear. Computational modelling provide an elegant means for elucidating during instrumental explain enhanced habit formation. We used formal reinforcement algorithms deconstruct process appetitive explore potential associations between actions patients with cocaine disorder (CUD). re-analysed data 55 healthy control volunteers 70 CUD applying model within hierarchical Bayesian framework. regression determine influence parameters variations brain structure on subsequent Poor performance was largely determined difficulties from feedback, as reflected significantly reduced rate. Subsequent formation response patterns partly explained group status individual variation sensitivity. White matter integrity networks only associated controls not patients. Our indicate impairments are insufficient account responding CUD.