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On distinguishing progressively increasing response requirements for reinforcement
David P Jarmolowicz1, Kennon A Lattal
1West Virginia University.
The Behavior Analyst
|April 6, 2012
Summary
This study examines different ways to increase response requirements for reinforcement, known as progressive-ratio schedules. It proposes new labels to accurately describe these varied progressive response requirement schedules.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral psychology
- Animal behavior studies
Background:
- Progressive-ratio schedules are used to increase response requirements for reinforcement.
- Existing arrangements vary in how response requirements are increased, leading to confusion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess different progressive response requirement contingencies.
- To propose a standardized set of descriptive labels for these schedules.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on progressive-ratio schedules.
- Analysis of response requirement contingencies across different arrangements.
Main Results:
- Identified several distinct arrangements of progressive response requirements.
- Highlighted inconsistencies in current labeling conventions.
Conclusions:
- A need exists for clearer terminology in progressive-ratio schedule research.
- Proposed labels aim to improve the precision and consistency of describing these schedules.
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