AAMC FL Practice Exam

What is the typical outcome of using partial reinforcement in behavior conditioning?

1. Quicker response extinction

2. Greater resistance to extinction

3. Increased response accuracy

4. Immediate behavior change

The correct answer is: Greater resistance to extinction

Using partial reinforcement in behavior conditioning leads to greater resistance to extinction. This outcome occurs because when a behavior is reinforced only some of the time, the individual learns that the behavior may still produce a reward, even if it doesn't happen every time. This unpredictability fosters persistence and a stronger emotional response associated with the behavior. Consequently, when the reinforcement is removed, individuals are more likely to continue the behavior for a longer duration before it fades away because they are conditioned to expect that a reward can emerge at any moment. This phenomenon is a central concept in learning theories, illustrating why behaviors established through partial reinforcement can endure longer than those established through continuous reinforcement. In contrast, the other outcomes provided do not accurately describe the effects of partial reinforcement. Quicker response extinction would suggest that behaviors stop rapidly, which is counter to the nature of partial reinforcement. Increased response accuracy usually pertains to the quality of the behavior performed, which does not directly relate to the reinforcement schedule. Immediate behavior change is more characteristic of continuous reinforcement, where a consistent reward can lead to quicker adjustments in behavior.