Pete cannot seem to stop checking the change slots of vending machines. Although he usually does not find any money, occasionally he finds a quarter. Despite the low levels of reinforcement, this behavior is likely to persist due to _____.
A) escape learning
B) the partial reinforcement effect
C) positive punishment
D) generalization

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The partial reinforcement effect refers to the fact that behaviors that are reinforced intermittently, rather than consistently, are more resistant to extinction. In this case, Pete's behavior of checking vending machine change slots is only reinforced occasionally with a quarter. This intermittent reinforcement is likely to lead to persistent behavior, even though the reinforcement is not always present.

Pete Cannot Seem to Stop Checking the Change Slots of Vending