What method is used to maintain reinforcement in operant conditioning?

Continuous reinforcement is a method in operant conditioning where a behavior is reinforced every time it occurs. This is essential for establishing new behaviors, as it creates a clear and immediate association between the behavior and the reward. When an individual receives reinforcement consistently upon performing the desired action, they are more likely to repeat that behavior in the future because they develop a strong expectation that the reward will always follow.

In the context of behavior training, continuous reinforcement is particularly effective during the initial stages of learning. It helps to solidify the connection between the action and the positive outcome, making it easier for the person or animal to understand what is being reinforced. Once the behavior has been established, trainers often switch to less frequent reinforcement, such as variable reinforcement or other schedules, to maintain the behavior with less effort and to avoid satiation.