If a reinforcer is given every time a desired response occurs, it is known as which reinforcement pattern?

• A. Intermittent reinforcement
• B. Partial reinforcement
• C. Variable reinforcement
• D. Continuous reinforcement

Answer: (D)

Reinforcement patterns describe how often a behavior is rewarded. When a reinforcer follows every single correct response, the learning situation uses continuous reinforcement. This makes the connection between the behavior and the consequence very clear, so the behavior is learned quickly. It’s especially effective for establishing new behaviors because the reward is predictable each time.

In contrast, partial or intermittent reinforcement provides rewards only on some occasions, which slows initial learning but can make the behavior more resistant to extinction. Variable reinforcement rewards outcomes at unpredictable times or after varying numbers of responses, often sustaining high response rates and also resisting extinction. Since the reinforcer occurs every time in this scenario, the pattern is continuous reinforcement.