When your child refuses to clean up their toys, pulls their sibling’s hair, or throws a tantrum, the last thing you might want to do is reward them. We completely understand that feeling. However, reinforcing positive behavior when it occurs — even with a reward — can significantly increase the chances that it will happen again. This technique is part of operant conditioning, a learning method where behaviors are modified based on their consequences. As a parent, using reinforcement can help promote the behaviors you wish to see in your child, such as tidying up their toys or being kind to their siblings. One effective method of reinforcement that can motivate your child without escalating conflicts is intermittent reinforcement.
Once a new behavior has been established, parents might explore partial or intermittent reinforcement to further solidify that behavior. Unlike continuous reinforcement, where a child receives a reward every time they exhibit the desired behavior, intermittent reinforcement involves providing rewards sporadically. For instance, a child on a continuous reinforcement schedule might earn an extra hour of screen time every time they complete their math homework. In contrast, with intermittent reinforcement, they would receive that extra screen time only occasionally and unpredictably.
What is an Intermittent Reinforcement Schedule?
An intermittent reinforcement schedule is characterized by varying time intervals between rewards. While the type of reinforcement remains the same — such as granting an hour of screen time after homework — the timing varies randomly. This unpredictability keeps your child engaged and motivated to maintain their behavior, as they cannot predict when the reward will come.
Why Does This Approach Work?
Consider this: if you always received a reward for your actions but suddenly stopped, you might revert to your previous behavior, thinking the reward is no longer available. However, if you know that a reward could come at any time, you’re more likely to keep up the good work. This unpredictability makes the desired behavior more likely to persist over time. The anticipation of a reward boosts motivation, making it more rewarding than receiving it every single time.
There are four types of intermittent reinforcement schedules, divided into two categories: interval (time elapsed) and ratio (number of responses). The four schedules include:
- Fixed interval schedule: A reward follows a specific time period.
- Fixed ratio schedule: A reward follows a set number of actions.
- Variable interval schedule: A reward follows a random and unpredictable time frame.
- Variable ratio schedule: A reward is given after a variable number of responses.
Examples of Intermittent Reinforcement
A relatable analogy for intermittent reinforcement can be found in playing arcade games. Your child doesn’t win every time, but when they do win tickets, it creates a euphoric response due to the unpredictability of the reward. Another example is fishing: while you may not catch a fish every time, the excitement of potentially catching a big one keeps you coming back.
From a parenting perspective, consider a situation where you discipline your child for throwing a tantrum in public. If you consistently give them a toy every time they act out, that’s continuous reinforcement. However, if you only discipline them sporadically, you create an inconsistent pattern that can be more effective.
For Younger Children (Ages 4-7)
- Your child plays on their iPad, and when you ask them to put it away, they plead for five more minutes. One night, you grant the extra time, but the next night, you take it away. They react with disappointment.
- During their birthday week, you allow extra dessert. The following week, when they ask for more, you remind them it’s not their birthday anymore, leading to upset feelings.
For Older Children (Ages 8-10)
- After preparing lunch, your child wants to swap a healthy item for a snack. When you refuse, the item remains untouched. But after a week, you allow the swap.
- When running errands, your child asks to play with your phone. You give in this time, but during your next outing, you refuse, leading to a tantrum.
- Your child has developed a habit of sleeping with you and your spouse. One night, you insist they sleep alone. They continue to ask for you to stay, but you maintain your decision.
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Summary
Incorporating intermittent reinforcement in parenting can be a powerful tool to encourage desired behaviors in children. By rewarding good behavior sporadically, parents can maintain their child’s motivation and engagement, leading to lasting positive changes. Understanding this technique can help create a more harmonious family dynamic.