Continuous Reinforcement

A continuous schedule of reinforcement is most often used to modify apre-existing behavior and plays a crucial role in acquiring a new behavior.

This schedule is used in a stable or consistent environment in order to ensurethat the reinforcement will follow the occurence of the key response. Thisreinforcement is a on-to-one relationship with the response. Each and everytime the target behavior is displayed, the reinforcement is provided.

This pattern of reinforcement leads to quick acquisition of a behavior. However, when the reinforcement is withdrawn, it also leads to rapidextinction.

Example

Everytime a student raises their hand before speaking, they receive asticker from the teacher.

Whenever the rat presses the metal bar, it receives one pellet of food.