RBT Reinforcement Strategies Flashcards
6 cards from real RBT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 RBT Reinforcement Strategies flashcards as text
What is a fixed interval (FI) schedule?
Answer: Reinforcement for the first response after a fixed period of time has elapsed
A fixed interval schedule reinforces the first correct response after a set amount of time has passed. For example, FI-2 minutes means the first correct response after 2 minutes have elapsed is reinforced. This produces a 'scallop' pattern of responding.
What is a variable interval (VI) schedule?
Answer: Reinforcement for the first response after a varying average time period has elapsed
A variable interval schedule reinforces the first response after an average amount of time has passed, with the actual interval varying around that average. This produces a moderate, steady rate of responding.
What is schedule thinning?
Answer: Gradually reducing the frequency of reinforcement from a denser to a leaner schedule
Schedule thinning is the gradual, systematic reduction of reinforcement frequency (e.g., from CRF to FR-2 to FR-5 to VR-10). This is done to transition the behavior from dense reinforcement during acquisition to more natural, intermittent reinforcement.
What is the Premack Principle?
Answer: A principle stating that access to a more preferred activity can reinforce engaging in a less preferred activity
The Premack Principle (also called 'Grandma's rule') states that a high-probability behavior (preferred activity) can be used to reinforce a low-probability behavior (less preferred activity). For example, 'First finish your vegetables, then you can have dessert.'
What is differential reinforcement of alternative behavior (DRA)?
Answer: Reinforcing a specific alternative behavior while withholding reinforcement for the target problem behavior
DRA involves reinforcing a specific, appropriate alternative behavior (often one that serves the same function as the problem behavior) while placing the problem behavior on extinction. This teaches the learner a better way to get their needs met.
What is differential reinforcement of other behavior (DRO)?
Answer: Reinforcement is delivered when the target problem behavior has NOT occurred for a specified period of time
DRO provides reinforcement when the target (problem) behavior has not occurred for a specified time interval. It reinforces the absence of the problem behavior. For example, if 5 minutes pass without aggression, the learner receives reinforcement.