University of Central Florida (UCF) EXP3404 Basic Learning Processes Practice Exam 2

The scallop effect is a phenomenon observed in operant conditioning, particularly in scenarios involving fixed-interval schedules of reinforcement. In this particular situation, responses tend to be infrequent immediately after reinforcement is provided. However, as the time approaches the next scheduled reinforcement, the frequency of responding gradually increases, creating a characteristic scallop shape when plotted on a graph.

In the correct scenario, there is a clear pattern showing that after a reinforcement has occurred, the subject’s responses decrease or cease temporarily. As the next reinforcement interval approaches, the responses begin to build up in anticipation of the reward. This behavior illustrates the scallop effect because it represents a cyclical pattern of responding that correlates closely with the timing of reinforcement.

Other scenarios fail to capture this unique pattern of behavior associated with the anticipation of reinforcement. For example, responses occurring sporadically throughout the interval do not show a distinct increase in rate as the reinforcement approaches. Continuously responding without regard to intervals does not reflect the anticipated waiting behavior characteristic of the scallop. Furthermore, immediate reinforcement for every response would not produce the intervals necessary for the scallop effect, as there would be no waiting period to induce the buildup of responses.