Which reinforcement schedule provides reinforcement after a fixed number of responses?

The correct answer is the fixed-ratio schedule, which is characterized by the delivery of reinforcement after a set number of responses. In this type of schedule, the individual must complete a specific number of tasks or behaviors to receive a reward. This creates a clear link between effort and reward, which often leads to high rates of responding as the individual works toward the predetermined number of responses needed to receive reinforcement.

For instance, if a worker is paid after every 10 items produced, they are on a fixed-ratio schedule. This type of reinforcement can lead to a burst of activity right before the reinforcement is earned, as individuals strive to reach the required number of responses.

Understanding this schedule contrasts it with others, such as fixed-interval, variable-ratio, and variable-interval schedules, which operate on different principles regarding the timing or number of responses required for reinforcement. In fixed-interval schedules, reinforcement is provided after a specific amount of time rather than a specific number of responses, while variable-ratio schedules provide reinforcement after an unpredictable number of responses, which results in high and steady rates of response. Variable-interval schedules give reinforcement based on varying time intervals, leading to a more steady but slower response rate compared to the fixed-ratio method.