The principle of partial reinforcement helps to explain why
A)we continue to give treats to our animals "just because" even when they do not perform any desired behaviour.
B)people may remain in dysfunctional and/or abusive relationships for years.
C)getting happy face and sad face stickers on excellent and poor assignments (respectively)helps to combat bad schoolwork in children.
D)rats will continue to press a lever for food even when it is sometimes also associated with shock.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The principle of partial reinforcement suggests that behaviors that are reinforced intermittently are more resistant to extinction than behaviors that are reinforced consistently. This means that in dysfunctional and/or abusive relationships, the intermittent positive reinforcement of affection or good moments can keep a person in the relationship despite experiencing negative behaviors.

The Principle of Partial Reinforcement Helps to Explain Why