Partial Reinforcement Schedules

Introduction

• Partial Reinforcement: Behavior is reinforced only some of the time.
• More resistant to extinction compared to continuous reinforcement.
• B.F. Skinner discovered these schedules through animal studies.

Importance of Partial Reinforcement

• Behaviors are initially shaped by continuous reinforcement but need partial reinforcement for sustainability.
• Four schedules of partial reinforcement, each affecting behavior differently.

Key Terminology

• Ratio: Refers to the number of responses.
• Interval: Refers to time.
• Fixed: Consistent.
• Variable: Variation exists.

Four Schedules of Partial Reinforcement

1. Fixed Ratio (FR)

• Reinforcement after a fixed number of responses.
• Example: Car salesman receives a bonus after every 5 cars sold.
• High rate of behavior due to reward frequency being dependent on individual.
• Common in jobs requiring fast-paced work (e.g., factory workers).

2. Fixed Interval (FI)

• Reinforcement after a consistent amount of time, provided behavior occurs.
• Example: Car salesman gets a paycheck every two weeks after selling at least one car.
• Lower rate of responding as reinforcement is time-dependent rather than response-dependent.

3. Variable Ratio (VR)

• Reinforcement after an average number of responses, varies each time.
• Example: Slot machines — payout occurs after an average number of pulls.
• Creates high and unpredictable response rates due to uncertainty.

4. Variable Interval (VI)

• Reinforcement after a variable amount of time.
• Example: Supervisor randomly gives bonuses when observing active customer interaction.
• Results in a more consistent rate of response than fixed interval schedules.

Conclusion

• Each schedule results in different response patterns.
• Understanding these can help identify reinforcement patterns in daily life.