How is intermittent reinforcement characterized?

Intermittent reinforcement is characterized by reinforcing a response sporadically rather than providing consistent reinforcement after each occurrence of the behavior. This type of reinforcement leads to a stronger and more persistent behavioral response because the individual learns to associate the behavior with potential rewards that are not guaranteed after every occurrence. As a result, the behavior is maintained over time, even when reinforcement is not provided consistently.

This approach is particularly effective because it creates a sense of uncertainty and anticipation, motivating the individual to engage in the behavior in hopes of receiving the reinforcement at some point. This can be seen in real-life scenarios, such as gambling, where players continue to play even if they do not win every time, due to the sporadic nature of the rewards. Thus, the essence of intermittent reinforcement lies in its unpredictable delivery of reinforcement, which enhances the resilience of the behavior being reinforced.