What reinforcement schedule best maintains persistence in a behavior over time?

The most effective reinforcement schedule for maintaining persistence in behavior over time is the variable interval schedule. This schedule provides reinforcement at unpredictable time intervals, which creates a consistent level of response because the individual never knows when the next reinforcement will occur. This unpredictability keeps individuals engaged and motivated since they are always anticipating the possibility of a reward, leading to sustained behavior over the long term.

In contrast, a continuous reinforcement schedule, where every occurrence of the behavior is rewarded, often leads to quick extinction when rewards are no longer provided. While fixed interval and fixed ratio schedules also produce behaviors, they tend to result in less consistent persistence. Fixed interval schedules can create a "scalloping" effect where responses ramp up just before the reinforcement is expected, but decrease significantly afterward. Fixed ratio schedules produce a high rate of response but may drop off quickly after reinforcement is received. Thus, the variable interval schedule is most effective for fostering long-term persistence due to its unpredictable reinforcement timing, keeping the behavior stable and ongoing.