BCBA Reinforcement Schedules and Contingency Management

Question 1

Which schedule of reinforcement produces the highest and most consistent response rates?

Accepted Answer

Variable ratio (VR)

Answer

Fixed ratio (FR)

Answer

Fixed interval (FI)

Answer

Variable interval (VI)

Question 2

A student receives a sticker after every 5 correct math problems. This is an example of which reinforcement schedule?

Accepted Answer

Fixed ratio FR-5

Answer

Variable ratio VR-5

Answer

Fixed interval FI-5

Answer

Variable interval VI-5

Question 3

What response pattern is typically associated with fixed interval (FI) schedules?

Accepted Answer

Scalloped pattern with a post-reinforcement pause

Answer

Steady high rate throughout the interval

Answer

Constant low rate of responding

Answer

Irregular bursts with long pauses

Question 4

Positive reinforcement is correctly defined as:

Accepted Answer

Adding a preferred stimulus following a behavior to increase its future frequency

Answer

Removing an aversive stimulus to increase future behavior

Answer

Presenting an aversive stimulus following behavior to decrease it

Answer

Withholding reinforcement to reduce unwanted behavior

Question 5

Negative reinforcement is best described as:

Accepted Answer

Contingent removal of an aversive stimulus that increases future responding

Answer

A punishment procedure that decreases behavior

Answer

Adding an aversive stimulus following behavior to increase it

Answer

Withholding reinforcement to reduce a behavior

Question 6

A child throws a tantrum and the parent gives them a toy to stop the crying. From the child's perspective, this is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Positive reinforcement

Answer

Positive punishment

Answer

Negative reinforcement

Answer

Negative punishment

Question 7

Which reinforcement schedule produces the MOST rapid extinction when reinforcement is discontinued?

Accepted Answer

Continuous reinforcement (CRF)

Answer

Variable ratio (VR)

Answer

Fixed ratio (FR)

Answer

Variable interval (VI)