Effects of token reinforcement schedules on work rate: a case study

The response rate of an educably mentally retarded male on a folder assembly task and for two types of self-stimulatory behavior was measured under fixed ratio, variable ratio, and fixed ratio pacing schedules of reinforcement. Higher work rates were maintained by the variable ratio and fixed ratio pacing schedule than by the simple fixed ratio schedule. The rate of self-stimulatory behavior associated with each reinforcement schedule and with a medication termination was also reported.