Applied Behavior Analysis Technician (ABAT) Practice Test

What does continuous reinforcement involve?

1. Reinforcing behavior after a variable number of performances

2. Reinforcing every instance of a target behavior

3. Reinforcing behavior only after specific intervals

4. Reinforcement based on the number of requests

The correct answer is: Reinforcing every instance of a target behavior

Continuous reinforcement involves reinforcing every instance of a target behavior. This means that each time the desired behavior occurs, it is immediately followed by a reinforcement or reward, which helps to strengthen the behavior and increase its occurrence. This method is particularly effective when teaching new behaviors, as it creates a clear and consistent connection between the behavior and the reinforcement, making it easier for the individual to recognize what is being rewarded. In contexts like therapy and skill acquisition, using continuous reinforcement can facilitate quicker learning and help establish a stable baseline of the desired behavior before transitioning to more intermittent reinforcement schedules. The other options describe different reinforcement strategies: variable reinforcement schedules (which provide reinforcement after a varying number of behaviors or at different intervals) or reinforcement techniques based on specific conditions, which do not reflect the principle of continuous reinforcement.