Preliminary analysis of partial reinforcement in discriminated avoidance

Abstract

In Experiment 1 the effects of partial reinforcement (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, or 100%) on acquisition and reinterpreted extinction of the lever response in discriminated avoidance was studied. In general, acquisition rate of the avoidance response was a direct function of reinforcement percentage, but with no evidence of a differential effect on extinction. In Experiment 2 an attempt to introduce partial reinforcement gradually under conditions of extended training demonstrated basically the same findings, with no increased resistance to extinction due to partial reinforcement, but found a dramatic “warm-up” for partial reinforcement. This suggested the need to begin extinction immediately following acquisition rather than at the beginning of the next session. © 1971, Psychonomic Journals, Inc.. All rights reserved.