What characterizes "continuous reinforcement" in ABA?

Continuous reinforcement is characterized by providing a reinforcement for every occurrence of a desired behavior. This means that whenever the behavior is displayed, the individual receives a reward or reinforcement immediately following that behavior. This schedule is particularly effective for teaching new behaviors, as it helps to strengthen the association between the behavior and the reinforcement, making it clear to the individual that their actions yield positive results.

Using continuous reinforcement can help to establish a pattern of behavior quickly, as individuals receive consistent feedback for their actions. This approach is often used in initial stages of behavior training, where clarity of the reinforcement process is crucial for learning.

In contrast to the other options, continuous reinforcement does not ignore behaviors, nor does it restrict reinforcement to specific times or intervals. It also does not selectively reinforce every other occurrence of the behavior. Understanding the principles of continuous reinforcement is essential for effectively applying behavioral techniques in practice.