Which type of reinforcement schedule is most resistant to extinction?

The type of reinforcement schedule that is most resistant to extinction is the variable ratio schedule. This schedule is characterized by providing reinforcement after an unpredictable number of responses, which makes the behavior that is being reinforced highly resistant to extinction. Since the individual never knows when the next reinforcement will occur, they are more likely to continue the behavior in hopes of receiving the reward. This unpredictability creates a strong association between the behavior and the anticipation of a reward, which contributes to its robustness.

In contrast, other schedules such as fixed interval and fixed ratio provide reinforcement based on a set number of responses or a specific time frame, which can lead to a quicker extinction of the behavior once the reinforcement stops. Continuous reinforcement, while effective for establishing a behavior initially, also results in faster extinction since the behavior is immediately associated with a consistent reward. Therefore, the variable ratio schedule’s unpredictability and the excitement surrounding the possibility of reward contribute to its lasting impact on behavior.