Interval Schedule

Definition

An interval schedule in psychology refers to a schedule of reinforcement where responses are reinforced after a specific amount of time has passed.

Analogy

It's like waiting for your favorite TV show to air every week. No matter how much you want it to come sooner, you have to wait for the specified interval before you can watch it again.

Related terms

Fixed Interval Schedule: A type of interval schedule where reinforcements are presented at fixed time periods, provided that the correct response is made.

Variable Interval Schedule: A type of interval schedule where reinforcements are presented at varying times provided that the correct response is made.

Conditioned Stimulus: A previously neutral stimulus that, after becoming associated with an unconditioned stimulus, eventually comes to trigger a conditioned response.