ratio reinforcement

in operant conditioning, reinforcement presented after a prearranged number of responses, in contrast to reinforcement delivered on the basis of a time schedule only. In such schedules (e.g., fixed-ratio schedule, progressive-ratio schedule), the rate of reinforcement is a direct function of the rate of responding. Also called ratio schedule of reinforcement. Compare interval reinforcement.

Browse dictionary by letter

a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z

Psychology term of the day

October 10th 2024

support group

a group similar in some ways to a self-help group in that members who share a problem come together to provide help, comfort, and guidance. A primary distinguishing feature of support groups is in their leadership: a professional or agency-based facilitator who often does not share the problem of members. In addition, support groups often last for only a limited predetermined number of sessions, and a fee for attendance is sometimes charged. Also called social support group.