Final answer:
Reinforcement theory uses different reinforcement schedules—fixed or variable, interval or ratio—to influence behavior in a managerial setting. Fixed schedules are consistent, while variable schedules are unpredictable.
Step-by-step explanation:
Reinforcement theory allows managers to vary rewards and punishments, creating an environment in which desired behaviors are encouraged. Specifically, behavior can be influenced using different schedules of reinforcement that are classified as either fixed or variable, and as either interval or ratio. Fixed schedules occur when the number or interval of behaviors needed for a reward is predetermined and unchanging, while variable schedules are unpredictable and change over time. An interval is based on time between reinforcements, whereas a ratio schedule is dependent on the number of responses between reinforcements.
For instance, with a fixed interval reinforcement schedule, behavior is rewarded after a set amount of time regardless of how many times that behavior is exhibited during the interval. Contrastingly, in a fixed ratio reinforcement schedule, a set number of responses must occur before a behavior is rewarded, irrespective of the time taken to perform those responses. The distinction lies in the emphasis on either output quantity (fixed ratio) or timing consistency (fixed interval).