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Related Experiment Videos

The sampling distribution of kappa.

Anthony P McLean1

  • 1University of Canterbury, Department of Psychology, Private bag 4800, Christchurch, New Zealand. anthony.mclean@canterbury.ac.nz

Behavioural Processes
|April 20, 2006
PubMed
Summary

Herrnstein's single-schedule equation research shows parameter k variations are often due to simulated response noise, not actual changes in reinforcement. This suggests the asymptotic rate of responding is independent of reinforcement parameters.

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Area of Science:

  • Behavioral economics
  • Operant conditioning

Background:

  • Conflicting findings exist regarding the constancy of the k parameter in Herrnstein's single-schedule equation.
  • Variations in k are often reported at low reinforcer values, while constancy is observed at higher values.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the influence of simulated response noise on the parameters of Herrnstein's equation.
  • To determine if variations in k are artifacts of experimental conditions rather than true changes in reinforcement.

Main Methods:

  • Simulations were conducted across a wide range of reinforcer values.
  • Herrnstein's equation was fitted to simulated responding, incorporating 'noise' responses.
  • Expected reinforcer rates were calculated and analyzed using reinforcement feedback functions.

Main Results:

  • Both k and Re parameters were underestimated under simulated low-deprivation or low-reinforcer-quality conditions.
  • Underestimation increased with higher noise levels, especially under low-deprivation or low-reinforcer-quality conditions.

Conclusions:

  • Reported variations in the k parameter from single schedules may be influenced by response noise.
  • These findings suggest that the asymptotic rate of responding is not dependent on reinforcement parameters as previously thought.

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