Theory of Personality (D564) Practice Exam

Behaviors that are reinforced on a __________ schedule are most resistant to extinction, according to B.F. Skinner.

1. Fixed

2. Random

3. Variable

4. Continuous

The correct answer is: Variable

Behaviors that are reinforced on a variable schedule are indeed most resistant to extinction, as posited by B.F. Skinner. In a variable schedule, reinforcement is provided after an unpredictable number of responses or over varying intervals of time. This unpredictability in the timing of the reinforcement makes it more difficult for the individual to discern when the reinforcement will occur, thus maintaining the behavior for a longer period even in the absence of reinforcement. This phenomenon can be understood through the concept of intermittent reinforcement, which often leads to stronger and more persistent behaviors compared to continuous reinforcement, where the reinforcement is provided after every single response. When a behavior is reinforced on a continuous schedule and the reinforcement stops, it typically leads to rapid extinction because the individual quickly realizes there is no longer a reward for their actions. Conversely, in the case of fixed schedules—where reinforcement is given at set intervals or after a specific number of responses—users may also experience a quicker extinction because they can predict when they are not receiving reinforcement. Random schedules are not typically recognized as a formal type of reinforcement in Skinner’s frameworks, making variable the best representation of resistance to extinction.