Compound Schedules of Reinforcement

What is a compound schedule of reinforcement?

• A single reinforcement schedule applied to a behavior

• A combination of two or more reinforcement schedules

• A schedule used only in concurrent settings

• None of the above

Answer explanation

A compound schedule of reinforcement refers to a combination of two or more reinforcement schedules, allowing for more complex patterns of behavior reinforcement compared to a single schedule.

In concurrent schedules of reinforcement, what is a key feature?

• Schedules alternate with distinct SDs

• Two or more schedules are available simultaneously, and the individual chooses

• One schedule must be completed before moving to the next

• There are no SDs indicating the schedule

Answer explanation

In concurrent schedules of reinforcement, multiple schedules are presented at the same time, allowing the individual to choose which schedule to engage with, making this the key feature.

What distinguishes a multiple schedule from a mixed schedule?

• The presence or absence of discriminative stimuli (SDs)

• The type of reinforcement used

• The order of schedule presentation

• The number of behaviors targeted

Answer explanation

A multiple schedule includes discriminative stimuli (SDs) that signal which schedule is in effect, while a mixed schedule does not have these SDs, making the presence or absence of SDs the key distinction.

In a chained schedule, what is required for reinforcement?

• Completion of one component schedule leads to reinforcement

• Each component schedule must be completed in sequence

• Either schedule can satisfy the requirement

• All requirements must be completed without signals

Answer explanation

In a chained schedule, reinforcement requires that each component schedule must be completed in sequence. This ensures that the completion of one component leads to the next, ultimately resulting in reinforcement.

Which of the following is an example of an alternative schedule?

• Completing 5 math problems OR working for 10 minutes

• Completing 5 math problems AND working for 10 minutes

• Alternating between math problems and a free time activity

• Completing tasks in a fixed order

Answer explanation

The correct choice, 'Completing 5 math problems OR working for 10 minutes', represents an alternative schedule as it offers a choice between two different tasks, unlike the other options which are more rigid.

Why are compound schedules useful in behavior analysis?

• They simplify behavior management

• They allow shaping of complex behaviors and balancing competing contingencies

• They are only used in research settings

• They replace all other forms of reinforcement schedules

Answer explanation

Compound schedules are useful in behavior analysis because they enable the shaping of complex behaviors and help balance competing contingencies, making them versatile tools in both research and practical applications.