RBT Reinforcement Strategies Flashcards

A client earns a token after every 5 correct responses, which can later be exchanged for a preferred item. This is an example of which reinforcement system?

Answer: Token economy

A token economy uses conditioned reinforcers (tokens) that are exchanged for backup reinforcers after accumulation.

When a reinforcer loses its effectiveness because the client has had too much of it in a short period, this is called:

Answer: Satiation

Satiation occurs when repeated access to a reinforcer reduces its value as a motivating operation.

An RBT delivers praise immediately every time a client completes a puzzle. After several sessions, the client independently starts puzzles more often. The praise is functioning as:

Answer: A positive reinforcer

Praise is a positive reinforcer because it follows behavior and increases the future frequency of that behavior.

Which schedule of reinforcement produces the highest and most consistent rate of responding?

Answer: Variable ratio

Variable ratio schedules produce high, steady response rates because reinforcement is unpredictable, which prevents pausing after reinforcement.

A client dislikes loud music. When they complete a task, the RBT turns off the loud music. Completing the task increases over time. This is:

Answer: Negative reinforcement

Negative reinforcement involves removing an aversive stimulus (loud music) contingent on behavior, which increases that behavior.

When transitioning a client from a continuous reinforcement schedule to an intermittent one to maintain a skill, this process is called:

Answer: Thinning the schedule

Thinning the reinforcement schedule gradually reduces the frequency of reinforcement while maintaining the behavior.

A client receives a sticker every 10 minutes regardless of behavior to reduce problem behavior. This procedure is:

Answer: Noncontingent reinforcement

Noncontingent reinforcement (NCR) delivers reinforcers on a time-based schedule independent of the client's behavior.