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FEEDBACK FUNCTIONS FOR VARIABLE‐INTERVAL REINFORCEMENT
Author(s) -
Nevin John A.,
Baum William M.
Publication year - 1980
Publication title -
journal of the experimental analysis of behavior
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.75
H-Index - 61
eISSN - 1938-3711
pISSN - 0022-5002
DOI - 10.1901/jeab.1980.34-207
Subject(s) - reinforcement , schedule , constant (computer programming) , interval (graph theory) , expression (computer science) , operant conditioning , variable (mathematics) , computer science , statistics , psychology , mathematics , social psychology , mathematical analysis , combinatorics , programming language , operating system
On a given variable‐interval schedule, the average obtained rate of reinforcement depends on the average rate of responding. An expression for this feedback effect is derived from the assumptions that free‐operant responding occurs in bursts with a constant tempo, alternating with periods of engagement in other activities; that the durations of bursts and other activities are exponentially distributed; and that the rates of initiating and terminating bursts are inversely related. The expression provides a satisfactory account of the data of three experiments.