What are schedules of reinforcement?

Schedules of reinforcement refer specifically to the rules or plans that dictate how and when reinforcement is provided following a desired behavior. This concept is crucial in behavioral psychology as it influences how strongly and consistently a behavior is learned and maintained.

When a schedule of reinforcement is implemented, it can be continuous or intermittent, with each having distinct effects on behavior. For example, a continuous schedule involves reinforcing a behavior every time it occurs, which can lead to quick acquisition of the behavior. In contrast, an intermittent schedule reinforces the behavior only some of the time, which may lead to more robust long-term retention and resistance to extinction.

This systematic approach to providing reinforcement helps practitioners understand how to manage behaviors effectively in communication disorders, making it essential knowledge for anyone working in the field. Other options do not align with this definition as they pertain to different aspects of communication and behavior management strategies.