What is partial reinforcement also known as?

Partial reinforcement is also known as intermittent reinforcement. This term refers to a reinforcement schedule in which only some responses are rewarded, rather than all responses. This type of reinforcement is important in behavioral psychology as it leads to behaviors that are more resistant to extinction compared to continuous reinforcement, where every response is rewarded.

Intermittent reinforcement can be further divided into fixed and variable schedules, with fixed schedules providing reinforcement after a set number of responses or time intervals, while variable schedules provide reinforcement after an unpredictable number of responses or intervals. This unpredictability creates a strong and enduring learning effect, as individuals do not know when the next reinforcement will occur, leading to more persistent and robust behavior patterns. Understanding this concept is crucial in fields like psychology, education, and behavior modification, among others.