Schedule segmentation and delay-reduction theory

In order to explain the data obtained from studies which examined effects of schedule segmentation on choice, the present study proposed five quantitative models stemming from delay-reduction theory. A total of 108 choice proportions reported in the schedule segmentation literature were plotted against choice proportions predicted by the models. Linear regression equations and their correlation coefficients were then obtained by the method of least squares, in order to examine which of the five equations was the best in explaining the obtained data. The best model determined the values of the alternatives by multiplying the values of conditioned stimuli associated with them, each of which was obtained by subtracting a non-reinforcement interval after its offset from an amount of delay reduction informed by its onset.