Fixed-interval and fixed-ratio reinforcement schedules with human subjects.

Area of Science:

• Behavioral psychology
• Psychiatric research

Background:

• Operant laboratory studies are integral to psychiatric research ward activities.
• Early data from ward staff, not patients, were analyzed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To observe behavior acquisition and maintenance under varying schedule values.
• To examine behavioral changes after adding a limited-hold contingency to fixed-interval schedules.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a multiple schedule with alternating fixed-ratio and fixed-interval components.
• Introduced a limited-hold contingency to the fixed-interval component.

Main Results:

• Prior to the limited-hold, subjects exhibited clock-watching and infrequent responding on fixed-interval schedules.
• Short limited-hold values effectively eliminated clock-watching and increased fixed-interval responding.
• Subjects' performances were influenced by both schedule contingencies and verbal instructions, with instructions also being contingency-controlled.

Conclusions:

• The study concluded that verbal control over behavior in fixed-interval schedules does not necessitate new behavioral principles.
• Existing behavioral principles adequately explain observed performances, including "nonstandard" fixed-interval responses.