Lecture Notes: Intermittent Reinforcement

Introduction

• Speaker: Sam Vaknin, author of "Malignant Self-Love: Narcissism Revisited" and professor of psychology
• Topic: Intermittent Reinforcement

Definition of Intermittent Reinforcement

• Basics:

  • Involves at least two people but can occur on a collective level (e.g., governments, social media companies)
  • Characterized by alternating signals or behaviors that are abusive or indifferent with instances of affection.

• Impact:

  • Creates uncertainty and confusion in the recipient, leading to traumatic bonding.
  • Common in various types of relationships, not just abusive ones.

Examples and Dimensions of Intermittent Reinforcement

1. False Hope:

   • Giving hope and then withdrawing it repeatedly.
   • Form of intermittent reinforcement.

2. Approach Avoidance:

   • Seen in people with Borderline Personality Disorder.
   • Involves approaching to mitigate abandonment anxiety and avoiding to manage engulfment anxiety.
   • Conflicting messages lead to trauma and intense bonding.

Types of Intermittent Reinforcement

1. Fixed Interval Schedule:

   • Predetermined timing of reward (e.g., every two weeks after continuous abuse).
   • Victim becomes used to abuse, developing tolerance akin to substance tolerance.

2. Variable Interval Schedule:

   • Reward is given at unpredictable times.
   • Victim becomes addicted to the unpredictable relief of stress, perpetuating tolerance of abuse.

3. Fixed Ratio Schedule:

   • Reward given after a fixed number of responses (e.g., after victim cries five times).
   • Victim is conditioned to respond in a specific way to reach the reward.

4. Variable Ratio Schedule:

   • Reward given after a variable number of responses.
   • Creates unpredictability, leading to a constant high rate of response from the victim.

Consequences of Intermittent Reinforcement

• Affects the body hormonally and leads to emotional and psychological weariness.
• Creates a zombie-like state where the victim is more easily manipulated and controlled.

Conclusion

• Intermittent reinforcement is a powerful tool for control and manipulation.
• Understanding these dynamics can help in recognizing and addressing trauma bonding.
• Staying informed about these patterns is crucial for mental health and well-being.

Note:

• Watch the interview about trauma bonding for further insights.
• The speaker acknowledges the intense nature of the topic and ends with an attempt to comfort the audience.