Which schedule is defined by delivering reinforcement after a specified number of correct responses?

Which schedule is defined by delivering reinforcement after a specified number of correct responses?

• A. Variable Ratio
• B. Fixed Ratio
• C. Fixed Interval
• D. Variable Interval

Answer: (B)

Reinforcement delivered after a specified number of responses is a fixed ratio schedule. The reward comes only after the subject completes a predetermined count of correct responses (for example, after every fifth correct response). Because the requirement is fixed, the animal tends to respond quickly as it nears the quota and then takes a brief pause after receiving the reinforcement before starting the next set. This creates a pattern of high response rates with a short post-reinforcement pause. In contrast, a variable ratio delivers rewards after unpredictable numbers of responses, producing a high, steady rate without clear pauses; a fixed interval reinforces after a fixed time, leading to a scalloped pattern with increasing responding as the time for the next reward approaches; a variable interval yields a steady, moderate rate with no predictable pauses. The described scenario aligns with a fixed ratio schedule.

Reinforcement delivered after a specified number of responses is a fixed ratio schedule. The reward comes only after the subject completes a predetermined count of correct responses (for example, after every fifth correct response). Because the requirement is fixed, the animal tends to respond quickly as it nears the quota and then takes a brief pause after receiving the reinforcement before starting the next set. This creates a pattern of high response rates with a short post-reinforcement pause. In contrast, a variable ratio delivers rewards after unpredictable numbers of responses, producing a high, steady rate without clear pauses; a fixed interval reinforces after a fixed time, leading to a scalloped pattern with increasing responding as the time for the next reward approaches; a variable interval yields a steady, moderate rate with no predictable pauses. The described scenario aligns with a fixed ratio schedule.