A behavior will decrease more quickly after continuous reinforcement rather than intermittent reinforcement. What is the correct answer?

The statement is true because continuous reinforcement involves providing a reward every time a desired behavior occurs, which leads to a strong and clear association between the behavior and the reward. This consistent reinforcement strengthens the behavior, making it more likely to occur frequently. However, when the reinforcement is removed, the behavior tends to decrease rapidly because the individual no longer receives the immediate gratification that was consistently provided.

In contrast, intermittent reinforcement, where rewards are given only some of the time a behavior is demonstrated, tends to create a more resilient behavior pattern. When reinforcement is applied intermittently, individuals often continue to engage in the behavior longer in the absence of rewards because they may anticipate a reward at some point even if it is not consistent.

Understanding the dynamics of reinforcement schedules is crucial in behavior management and modification, particularly in the context of supporting individuals with autism. Continuous reinforcement can be beneficial for establishing a behavior, while understanding the implications of intermittent reinforcement can help maintain behaviors over a longer period.