Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 7, 2026

Modeling Verbal Behavior Deficits with the Stimulus Control Ratio Equation, SCoRE
Published on: May 14, 2019
Combinations of response-reinforcer dependence and independence
Abstract:
The contribution of the response-reinforcer dependency to the control of behavior was investigated. Pigeons were trained to key peck under a variable-interval schedule of reinforcement. With the total number and temporal distribution of reinforcer deliveries in experimental sessions constant, the effects of varying the percentage of response-independent reinforcement were examined. At different times, 100%, 66%, 33%, 10%, or 0% of the scheduled reinforcers were delivered dependent upon key pecking and the remainder were delivered independently of responding. Response rates were related to the percentage of response-dependent reinforcement with lower response rates associated with smaller percentages of response-dependent reinforcement. The results suggest that the response-reinforcer relation exerts control over behavior in a manner similar to that exerted by other parameters of reinforcement.
Related Concept Videos
Reinforcement Schedules
Once a behavior is learned,...
Real-World Application of Classical Conditioning
Higher-order, or second-order, conditioning occurs when a neutral stimulus becomes associated with an already established conditioned stimulus through repeated pairings. For instance, if a dog has been...
Primary and Secondary Reinforcers
Effective reinforcers for humans vary depending on the individual and the context. Primary reinforcers, such as food, water, sleep, shelter, and pleasure, have inherent value and satisfy basic biological...
Operant Conditioning
Reinforcement in operant conditioning can be positive or negative, both of which serve to increase the likelihood of a behavior. Positive...
Introduction to Test of Independence
The test statistic for a test of independence is similar to that of a goodness-of-fit test:
Drug Dependence

