Chapter 9: Problem 1

Explain how the four schedules of partial reinforcement work.

Short Answer

Expert verified

The four schedules of partial reinforcement are: Fixed Ratio, where reinforcement occurs after a specific number of responses; Variable Ratio, where reinforcement is based on an average number of responses; Fixed Interval, where the first response is rewarded after a specific amount of time has elapsed; and Variable Interval, where a response is rewarded after an unpredictable amount of time has passed.

Step by step solution

Fixed Ratio (FR) schedule

Under a Fixed Ratio schedule, reinforcement is delivered after a specific number of responses have been made. This creates a high, steady rate of responding with only a brief pause after the delivery of the reinforcer. For example, a worker getting paid for every five widgets they make is an example of a fixed ratio schedule.

Variable Ratio (VR) schedule

In a Variable Ratio schedule, the delivery of reinforcement is based on a particular average number of responses. This might involve providing a reward after five responses, then after two, then after four, and so on. Examples of this might be winning a game of bingo or gambling on a slot machine. This schedule generates a high, steady rate of responding with little or no pause between reinforcements.

Fixed Interval (FI) schedule

In a Fixed Interval schedule, the first response is rewarded only after a specified amount of time has elapsed. This causes high amounts of responding near the end of the interval but slower responding immediately after the delivery of the reinforcer. A classic example of this is when students cram for an exam the night before, and then slow down their studying once the tests are over.

Variable Interval (VI) schedule

With a Variable Interval schedule, a response is rewarded after an unpredictable amount of time has passed, which produces a slow, steady rate of response. A classic example of this would be checking your email or fishing. You do not know when a fish will bite, so you check the bobber periodically.

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Explain how the four schedules of partial reinforcement work.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Fixed Ratio (FR) schedule

Variable Ratio (VR) schedule

Fixed Interval (FI) schedule

Variable Interval (VI) schedule

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