The reinforcement relation as a function of instrumental response base rate.

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Abstract
This experiment investigated the relationship between base rate (i.e., operant level, or precontingent rate) of the instrumental response and asymptotic reinforced responding. Running was used to reinforce an instrumental response of licking. Variations in the base rate of the instrumental licking response were produced by varying the contents of the drinking tube, while base rate of the reinforcing running response was held constant. The effects of variations in the base rate of the instrumental response on the reinforcement relation were examined for several FR reinforcement schedules and for extinction, both with respect to asymptotic reinforced licking, and with respect to the reinforced increments in contingent licking. The results indicated that asymptotic reinforced instrumental responding varied directly with base rate of the instrumental response, and that the reinforced increments in contingent instrumental responding were determined both by base rate of the instrumental response and the reinforcing response.

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