Intermittent Reinforcement Schedule

Definition

An intermittent reinforcement schedule is a pattern of reinforcing a behavior only some of the time. This creates resistance to extinction and can result in more persistent behaviors compared to continuous reinforcement.

Related terms

Continuous Reinforcement: A type of reinforcement where every occurrence of the behavior is reinforced.

Fixed Interval Schedule: A specific amount of time must pass before the behavior will be reinforced.

Variable Ratio Schedule: The number of behaviors required for reinforcement varies unpredictably.