5 Ways Variable Interval Schedule

The Variable Interval Schedule (VIS) is a type of reinforcement schedule in operant conditioning, where the reinforcement is delivered after a variable amount of time has passed since the last reinforcement. This type of schedule is commonly used in behavioral psychology to study the effects of reinforcement on behavior. In this article, we will explore 5 ways the Variable Interval Schedule can be used to understand and modify behavior.

Understanding the Variable Interval Schedule

The Variable Interval Schedule is a type of reinforcement schedule that is commonly used in behavioral psychology. In a VIS, the reinforcement is delivered after a variable amount of time has passed since the last reinforcement. This type of schedule is often used to study the effects of reinforcement on behavior, as it allows researchers to manipulate the frequency and duration of the reinforcement.

For example, a researcher may use a VIS to study the effects of reinforcement on the frequency of a behavior, such as the number of times a person checks their phone. In this study, the researcher may provide reinforcement, such as a reward or praise, after a variable amount of time has passed since the last reinforcement. The researcher may then measure the frequency of the behavior, such as the number of times the person checks their phone, to see how it changes over time.

Increasing the Frequency of a Behavior

One way the Variable Interval Schedule can be used is to increase the frequency of a behavior. By providing reinforcement after a variable amount of time, the VIS can create a sense of anticipation and uncertainty, which can motivate individuals to engage in the behavior more frequently. For example, a teacher may use a VIS to increase the frequency of a student’s participation in class by providing reinforcement, such as praise or rewards, after a variable amount of time.

Table 1 below shows an example of how a VIS can be used to increase the frequency of a behavior:

In this example, the reinforcement is delivered after a variable amount of time, which can create a sense of anticipation and uncertainty, motivating the individual to engage in the behavior more frequently.

Decreasing the Frequency of a Behavior

Another way the Variable Interval Schedule can be used is to decrease the frequency of a behavior. By increasing the amount of time between reinforcements, the VIS can reduce the motivation to engage in the behavior. For example, a manager may use a VIS to decrease the frequency of a employee’s tardiness by providing reinforcement, such as praise or rewards, after a longer amount of time.

Table 2 below shows an example of how a VIS can be used to decrease the frequency of a behavior:

In this example, the reinforcement is delivered after a longer amount of time, which can reduce the motivation to engage in the behavior, decreasing its frequency.

Modifying the Duration of a Behavior

The Variable Interval Schedule can also be used to modify the duration of a behavior. By providing reinforcement after a variable amount of time, the VIS can create a sense of anticipation and uncertainty, which can motivate individuals to engage in the behavior for a longer or shorter amount of time. For example, a coach may use a VIS to modify the duration of an athlete’s practice sessions by providing reinforcement, such as praise or rewards, after a variable amount of time.

Table 3 below shows an example of how a VIS can be used to modify the duration of a behavior:

In this example, the reinforcement is delivered after a variable amount of time, which can create a sense of anticipation and uncertainty, motivating the individual to engage in the behavior for a longer or shorter amount of time.

Understanding the Effects of Reinforcement on Behavior

The Variable Interval Schedule can also be used to understand the effects of reinforcement on behavior in various contexts, including education, workplace, and clinical settings. By studying how the VIS affects behavior, researchers and practitioners can develop a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms of reinforcement and how it can be used to modify behavior.

For example, a researcher may use a VIS to study the effects of reinforcement on the frequency of a behavior, such as the number of times a person checks their phone. The researcher may then use this knowledge to develop strategies for modifying the behavior, such as increasing or decreasing the frequency of the behavior.