How Partial Reinforcement Differs from Continuous
Reinforcement in psychology refers to any consequence that strengthens the likelihood of a behavior occurring again. In continuous reinforcement, every single instance of a desired behavior is followed by a reinforcer. For example, a dog might receive a treat every time it sits on command, leading to rapid learning of the new behavior. This consistent feedback helps the learner quickly associate the action with its positive outcome.
Partial reinforcement, in contrast, involves reinforcing a behavior only some of the time it occurs, rather than every time. This means the connection between the behavior and the reward is not always immediate or predictable. While continuous reinforcement leads to fast acquisition of a behavior, it also results in the behavior extinguishing quickly if the reinforcement stops. Partial reinforcement, however, plays a different role in shaping behavior over the long term.
The Different Schedules of Partial Reinforcement
There are four primary schedules of partial reinforcement, each influencing behavior in distinct ways. These schedules are categorized based on whether the reinforcement depends on the number of responses or the passage of time, and whether the delivery is fixed or variable.
Fixed Ratio (FR) schedules deliver reinforcement after a specific, predetermined number of responses have occurred. For instance, a factory worker might get paid after assembling ten items. This schedule typically produces a high rate of response, as the individual quickly learns that more responses lead directly to more reinforcement. After receiving the reward, there is often a short pause in activity before the high response rate resumes.
Variable Ratio (VR) schedules provide reinforcement after an unpredictable number of responses. A slot machine exemplifies this, where a payout occurs after a varying number of plays, making it impossible to predict exactly when the next win will happen. This unpredictability makes VR schedules incredibly powerful in maintaining behavior, often resulting in very high and consistent response rates without significant pauses.
Fixed Interval (FI) schedules reinforce the first response made after a specific, fixed amount of time has passed. An example might be a weekly paycheck, where an employee receives pay every Friday. This schedule typically leads to a pattern where responses increase as the reinforcement time approaches, and then drop off immediately after the reinforcement is given.
Variable Interval (VI) schedules reinforce the first response after an unpredictable amount of time has elapsed. Consider checking your email; you might receive new messages at random times, so you check periodically. This schedule produces a moderate, steady rate of response because the individual never knows exactly when the next reinforcement will be available.
Behavioral Outcomes of Partial Reinforcement
Behaviors learned under partial reinforcement are notably more resistant to extinction compared to those learned with continuous reinforcement. This phenomenon is known as the partial reinforcement extinction effect. When reinforcement stops entirely, behaviors that were intermittently rewarded tend to persist for much longer, as the individual has learned to expect periods without reinforcement. They continue to perform the behavior, anticipating that the reward will eventually reappear.
Beyond extinction resistance, each schedule influences behavioral patterns. Variable ratio schedules produce high, consistent response rates due to their unpredictability. Fixed interval schedules often lead to a “scalloped” pattern, with activity increasing just before the expected reinforcement time.
Partial Reinforcement in Daily Life
Partial reinforcement principles are evident in many aspects of everyday life. One common example is gambling, particularly with slot machines, which operate on a variable ratio schedule. The unpredictable nature of winning payouts keeps players engaged for extended periods, despite frequent losses. The intermittent reinforcement makes the behavior highly addictive and difficult to stop.
Checking social media or email also demonstrates partial reinforcement, often operating on a variable interval schedule. We frequently check our devices. Similarly, fishing exemplifies a variable interval schedule, as catches occur at unpredictable times.