Questions and Answers
What is a fixed-ratio schedule?
What does variable-ratio schedule refer to?
Provide reinforcers after a seemingly unpredictable number of responses.
Describe a fixed-interval schedule.
Reinforce the first response after a fixed time period.
Explain what variable-interval schedule is.
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
Reinforcement Schedules
-
Fixed-Ratio:
- Behavior is reinforced after a specific number of responses.
- Example: Customers receiving a free drink after every 10 purchases at a coffee shop.
-
Variable-Ratio:
- Reinforcement occurs after an unpredictable number of responses.
- Commonly experienced by slot machine players who receive rewards randomly, creating a high level of engagement.
-
Fixed-Interval:
- The first response is reinforced after a predetermined time period has passed.
- Behavior tends to increase as the expected time for the reward approaches, such as checking the mailbox more frequently as delivery time nears.
-
Variable-Interval:
- Reinforcement is provided for the first response after varying amounts of time.
- Results in slow and steady response rates, as users may repeatedly check for messages without knowing when they will receive a response.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
Explore key concepts in behavioral psychology with these flashcards. Learn about fixed-ratio, variable-ratio, and fixed-interval schedules of reinforcement. Perfect for students looking to deepen their understanding of behavioral reinforcement techniques.
