RESPONSE‐REINFORCER INDEPENDENCE AND CONVENTIONAL EXTINCTION AFTER FIXED‐INTERVAL AND VARIABLE‐INTERVAL SCHEDULES 1

Abstract

After training three albino rats to bar press during a multiple fixed‐interval variable‐interval schedule, the response‐reinforcer dependency was simultaneously removed from both components, converting the schedule to multiple fixed‐time variable‐time. Response rates were reduced in both components under these conditions but the fixed‐time schedule maintained relatively higher response rates with each rat. After reinstating the response‐reinforcer dependency in both components, responding was conventionally extinguished by rendering the pellet dispenser inoperative. Responding rapidly decreased to near‐zero levels. Differences in fixed and variable‐time schedules in sustaining behavior are discussed in terms of differences in response rates at the time of reinforcer delivery. Similarities and differences between conventional extinction and schedules delivering response‐independent reinforcers are also discussed.