Give an example of each of the four schedules of partial reinforcement, and comment on which schedule would be most likely to result in lasting behavioral change.

The four schedules of partial reinforcement are fixed-ratio, variable-ratio, fixed-interval, and variable-interval.

An example of fixed-ratio reinforcement is a salesperson receiving a bonus for every 10 products sold.

An example of variable-ratio reinforcement is a slot machine paying out after an unpredictable number of pulls.

An example of fixed-interval reinforcement is a student receiving a grade for a test at the end of every month.

An example of variable-interval reinforcement is a manager checking in on employees at random times throughout the day.

The schedule most likely to result in lasting behavioral change is the variable-ratio schedule. This is because it is the most resistant to extinction, meaning the behavior is more likely to continue even if the reinforcement is removed. The unpredictability of the reinforcement keeps the individual engaged and motivated to continue the behavior.