Which schedule yields reinforcement after a fixed number of responses?

• A. Variable Ratio
• B. Fixed Interval
• C. Continuous Reinforcement
• D. Fixed Ratio

Answer: (D)

Fixed ratio reinforcement occurs when a reward is given after a set number of responses. For example, the learner receives reinforcement after every fifth response. This creates a high, steady rate of responding, with a brief pause after each reinforcement as the next set of responses is required to reach the next reward.

This differs from other schedules: variable ratio provides reinforcement after an unpredictable number of responses (producing a high, steady rate with few or no pauses); fixed interval provides reinforcement after a fixed amount of time (leading to a pattern where responding increases as the time for reinforcement approaches, then pauses after delivery); continuous reinforcement gives reinforcement after every response (rapid acquisition without a ratio or interval structure).