What characterizes fixed-ratio reinforcement?

Fixed-ratio reinforcement is characterized by rewards being provided after a specified number of responses. In this schedule of reinforcement, a behavior is reinforced only after it has occurred a certain number of times. For example, if a person receives a reward after every fifth response, this reinforces the behavior more consistently as the individual can predict when the reward will occur based on the number of responses made. This type of reinforcement often leads to high rates of responding, as individuals strive to exceed the required number of responses to obtain the reward.

It is distinct from other types of reinforcement schedules, such as fixed-interval, where rewards are delivered after a set time period, and variable-ratio or variable-interval schedules, which involve unpredictability in the number of responses or time intervals required for receiving a reward. This predictability in fixed-ratio schedules can motivate individuals to increase their effort to reach the specific response criteria set for the rewards.