The partial reinforcement effect sustained through blocks of continuous water reinforcement

Abstract

Thirsty rats received either partial or continuous water reinforcement in Phase I. In Phase II, half of the partially rewarded subjects were shifted to continuous reinforcement while the other half continued to receive partial reinforcement. The continuously reinforced subjects continued to receive the same reinforcement conditions as before. In Phase 3, all subjects underwent extinction. The results showed both a highly significant PREE and a sustained PREE. The need for investigation of known behavioral phenomena as a function of different reinforcers was emphasized. © 1975, The Psychonomic Society, Inc.. All rights reserved.