Question

A limited hold is sometimes added to interval reinforcement in order to ___________.

1) Increase the effectiveness of the reinforcement
2) Decrease the effectiveness of the reinforcement
3) Maintain a consistent reinforcement schedule
4) Vary the reinforcement schedule

Answer 1

A limited hold boosts reinforcement effectiveness by creating a sense of urgency for the subject to respond after an interval has ended, ensuring more consistent responses and maintaining steady performance levels. The correct answer is option 1.

Step-by-step explanation:

A limited hold is sometimes added to interval reinforcement schedules to increase the effectiveness of the reinforcement. This procedure entails providing a period of time after an interval has elapsed during which a response will result in reinforcement. If the subject does not respond within this period, the opportunity for reinforcement is lost until the next interval is completed. This element of urgency encourages the subject to respond more promptly once the interval has finished, enhancing the reinforcing power of the opportunity for reward and maintaining a consistent level of performance.

For example, in a variable interval reinforcement schedule, if a manager wants to ensure their employees are consistently providing good service, they might add a limited hold to ensure that after random intervals, employees must meet the service standard quickly to receive a bonus. This prevents employees from slacking off at any point because they know that they must meet the criteria promptly to obtain the bonus.