Final answer:
A fixed interval reinforcement schedule provides reinforcement only after a specified period of time has passed since the last rewarded behavior. This type of schedule can result in a pattern where the subject responds only around the time reinforcement is expected, in contrast to other schedules that may produce different response patterns.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question refers to a type of operant conditioning reinforcement schedule known as a fixed interval reinforcement schedule. This schedule provides reinforcement to the subject only if the behavior occurs after a specified period of time has elapsed since the last time the behavior was rewarded. An example of this could be a patient who is prescribed medication for pain relief on a fixed schedule, where the medication is only available after an hour has passed, regardless of how many times the patient may request it in between.
In a fixed ratio reinforcement schedule, reinforcement is provided after a predetermined number of responses, which encourages a high rate of response because the subject knows exactly how many actions are required to receive reinforcement. In contrast, with a variable interval reinforcement schedule, reinforcement comes after varying and unpredictable amounts of time, which tends to produce a moderate, steady rate of response, as the timing of reinforcement is not known.