Which of the following is an example of a fixed interval reinforcement schedule?

• A. A dog gets a treat after every third time it sits on command.
• B. A salesperson receives a bonus after selling five products.
• C. A student receives a reward for every assignment completed, regardless of time.
• D. A worker receives a paycheck every two weeks, regardless of how many tasks are completed.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of reinforcement schedules in operant conditioning, which describe how and when a behavior is followed by a reinforcer.
2. Identify that a fixed interval reinforcement schedule provides reinforcement after a fixed amount of time has passed, regardless of the number of responses.
3. Review each option to see if the reinforcement depends on the passage of time or the number of responses.
4. Note that options involving reinforcement after a certain number of responses (like every third time or after selling five products) are examples of fixed ratio schedules, not fixed interval.
5. Recognize that the option where a worker receives a paycheck every two weeks, regardless of tasks completed, fits the fixed interval schedule because reinforcement is based on a fixed time period.