In the context of reinforcement schedules, what is the term for a consistent number of responses required for a reward?

A fixed ratio schedule involves reinforcing a behavior after a set number of responses have been made. This means that for every specific number of responses, a reward is provided, creating a predictable pattern of reinforcement. For instance, if a rat in a Skinner box receives a food pellet after pressing a lever five times, this is an example of a fixed ratio schedule. This type of reinforcement leads to a high rate of responding, as subjects know that their efforts will lead to a reward after a certain number of responses.

Continuous reinforcement, on the other hand, provides a reward after every single response, which is different from requiring a consistent number of responses. A variable ratio schedule varies the number of responses required for reinforcement, which can lead to a high rate of responding but does not involve a fixed number. An interval schedule, meanwhile, provides reinforcement after a set period rather than a specific number of responses, making it distinct from the concept being asked in the question. Therefore, the term that accurately describes the reinforcement based on a consistent number of responses is a fixed ratio schedule.