Continuous Reinforcement
Also called: CRF, FR1, fixed-ratio 1
Definition
A schedule in which every occurrence of the target response is reinforced. It is the fastest way to establish a new behavior and the least durable way to maintain one, because responding under continuous reinforcement extinguishes quickly once the reinforcement stops.
In plain language
Every single time the behavior happens, it is rewarded. Best for teaching something new; not good for making it last.
Example
During the first days of teaching a new request, every correct request produces the item.
Not continuous reinforcement
Praising roughly every third correct answer. That is intermittent reinforcement.
Commonly confused with
See also
Written from
- ferster-skinner-1957
Written from Ferster and Skinner (1957). No textbook glossary consulted.
This entry has not yet been through clinical review. Treat it as a draft.