This reinforcement schedule, commonly used within applied behavior analysis (ABA), delivers reinforcement after an unpredictable number of responses. Unlike fixed schedules, where reinforcement occurs after a set number of behaviors, this approach uses a range. For instance, reinforcement might be delivered after 3 responses, then after 7, then after 5, and so on, with the average being the determining factor. This unpredictability is key to its effectiveness. This method of reinforcement delivery leads to high and consistent response rates because the individual cannot predict when the reinforcement will occur, making them more likely to continue performing the target behavior.
The value of this approach lies in its ability to create persistent behavior change. The absence of predictability makes the behavior more resistant to extinction compared to schedules where the reinforcement pattern is consistent. Historically, this type of reinforcement schedule has been shown to be particularly effective in maintaining behaviors across various settings and populations. It is commonly used in skill acquisition, behavior reduction, and the generalization of learned skills because of its efficacy in promoting consistent responding, even when continuous reinforcement is no longer available.
