RBT Reinforcement Strategies 2

Question 1

A child earns a sticker for every 5 math problems completed. Which schedule of reinforcement is this?

Accepted Answer

Fixed ratio (FR5)

Answer

A fixed ratio schedule delivers reinforcement after a set number of responses. In this case, every 5 problems completed earns a sticker, which is an FR5 schedule.

Question 2

Which schedule of reinforcement is associated with the HIGHEST resistance to extinction and the most persistent responding?

Accepted Answer

Variable ratio

Answer

Variable ratio (VR) schedules produce the highest resistance to extinction. Because the learner cannot predict when reinforcement will occur, they continue responding at high rates even when reinforcement is temporarily unavailable.

Question 3

An RBT delivers praise every 3 minutes regardless of what the client is doing. Which type of reinforcement schedule is being used?

Accepted Answer

Fixed time (noncontingent reinforcement)

Answer

A fixed time (FT) schedule delivers a stimulus at regular, predictable time intervals regardless of the client's behavior. When used to reduce problem behavior, this is called noncontingent reinforcement (NCR) — the reinforcer is delivered on a time schedule, not contingent on any response.

Question 4

What is meant by 'schedule thinning' in the context of reinforcement?

Accepted Answer

Changing from a continuous reinforcement schedule to a more intermittent schedule as behavior is acquired

Answer

Schedule thinning involves gradually reducing the density of reinforcement (e.g., moving from CRF to FR2 to VR5) to maintain behavior with less frequent reinforcement, promoting durability and natural environment performance.

Question 5

What is the term for the temporary increase in rate, intensity, or variability of a behavior that occurs at the beginning of extinction?

Accepted Answer

Extinction burst

Answer

An extinction burst is the initial increase in behavior when reinforcement is first withheld. It represents the learner's increased attempts to obtain the previously available reinforcer.

RBT Practice Test

RBT Practice Test

RBT Reinforcement Strategies 2