Concurrent Schedule
A reinforcement arrangement where two or more response options are simultaneously available.
Full Definition
A concurrent schedule presents two or more independent schedules of reinforcement operating simultaneously, allowing the organism to choose between different response options at any time. This experimental arrangement is fundamental to understanding choice behavior and has extensive applications in behavioral medicine. Concurrent schedules help researchers and clinicians analyze preference patterns, evaluate treatment acceptability, and understand how different reinforcement contingencies compete for an individual's behavior. The resulting choice patterns often follow matching law principles, where response allocation matches reinforcement allocation.
Usage
Usage note: Specify the component schedules when describing concurrent arrangements.
In Context
- "The concurrent schedule assessment identified which reinforcers were most effective for this patient." — Behavioral assessment report
- "Concurrent schedules in the natural environment often compete with therapeutic interventions." — Treatment planning discussion