BCBA Reinforcement Schedules and Contingency Management

Question 1

Which schedule of reinforcement produces the highest and most consistent response rates?

Accepted Answer

Variable ratio (VR)

Answer

Variable ratio schedules produce the highest and most consistent rates of responding because reinforcement is unpredictable, making the behavior highly resistant to extinction.

Question 2

A student receives a sticker after every 5 correct math problems. This is an example of which reinforcement schedule?

Accepted Answer

Fixed ratio FR-5

Answer

A fixed ratio schedule delivers reinforcement after a set, predictable number of responses — in this case, every 5 correct problems regardless of time elapsed.

Question 3

What response pattern is typically associated with fixed interval (FI) schedules?

Accepted Answer

Scalloped pattern with a post-reinforcement pause

Answer

Fixed interval schedules produce a scalloped pattern: a pause after reinforcement, then gradually increasing responding as the end of the interval approaches.

Question 4

Positive reinforcement is correctly defined as:

Accepted Answer

Adding a preferred stimulus following a behavior to increase its future frequency

Answer

Positive reinforcement is the contingent presentation of a stimulus following a behavior that increases the future frequency of that behavior.

Question 5

Negative reinforcement is best described as:

Accepted Answer

Contingent removal of an aversive stimulus that increases future responding

Answer

Negative reinforcement involves the contingent removal of an aversive stimulus following a behavior, which increases the future probability of that behavior.

BCBA - Board Certified Behavior Analyst Practice Test

BCBA - Board Certified Behavior Analyst Practice Test

BCBA Reinforcement Schedules and Contingency Management