An automated device for screening the effects of psychotropic drugs on aggression and motor activity in mice.

An automated technique for measuring simultaneously aggressive behavior and motor activity in mice is described. This technique allows measure of aggressive behavior and motor activity continuously throughout long-lasting periods without disturbing the animals except for feeding, watering and cleaning the cages. The effects of n-D-propylacetate, a drug which affects aggression without affecting motor activity, were also tested.