Reinforcement that takes place after a specific period of time is known as?

Reinforcement that occurs after a specific period of time is accurately identified as fixed interval reinforcement. This concept is based on the principles of operant conditioning, where behaviors are reinforced after a predetermined time has elapsed. With fixed interval schedules, individuals learn that reinforcement is forthcoming after a consistent time period, causing a pattern of behavior to emerge where responses are increased just before the reward is expected.

In this context, individuals might engage in specific behaviors more frequently as the time for reinforcement approaches. For example, employees may work harder as a paycheck period nears, reflecting the predictable nature of the reinforcement schedule.

The other options illustrate different reinforcement schedules. Variable ratio refers to reinforcement after an unpredictable number of responses, which leads to a high and steady rate of behavior. Variable interval involves reinforcement after varying periods, making the delivery of reinforcement unpredictable, which similarly encourages consistent effort but based on time variations. Continuous reinforcement entails providing a reward every time a desired behavior occurs, which is effective for establishing new behaviors but can lead to rapid extinction if the reinforcement stops. Each of these differences illustrates why fixed interval is the correct understanding in this particular scenario.