Nicotine content and abstinence state have different effects on subjective ratings of positive versus negative reinforcement from smoking

► An MRI-compatible smoking device was developed and tested. ► The device delivered the same amounts of nicotine as typical smoking. ► Physiological effects and ratings were the same smoking with or without the device. ► Cigarette type impacted ratings of positive more than negative reinforcement. ► Smoking abstinence impacted both ratings of positive and negative reinforcement.