When a specified behavior is no longer rewarded or punished every time but rewarded or punished on a more random basis, it is which type of schedule of reinforcement?
A) variable-interval
B) variable-ratio
C) partial
D) continuous

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This type of schedule is called partial reinforcement. When a behavior has been reinforced on a continuous basis and is then only reinforced sporadically, the behavior is more likely to persist because the subject becomes uncertain when the next reinforcement will be given. In variable-interval, the reinforcement is still given based on time, but the amount of time is varied, and in variable-ratio, the reinforcement is given based on the number of responses, but the number varies. However, neither of these schedules involve a change from continuous reinforcement to intermittent reinforcement, which is what is described in the question.

When a Specified Behavior Is No Longer Rewarded or Punished