What distinguishes continuous reinforcement from intermittent reinforcement?

Continuous reinforcement is characterized by providing reinforcement after every occurrence of a desired behavior. This method is particularly effective in the initial stages of learning when the goal is to establish a strong association between the behavior and the reinforcement. By reinforcing each instance of the behavior, individuals can quickly learn to repeat that behavior, as they receive immediate feedback for their actions.

This approach is used most effectively when teaching new skills or behaviors, where consistency in reinforcement helps clarify expectations and enhances learning. On the other hand, intermittent reinforcement involves providing reinforcement after some but not all occurrences of the behavior, which is useful for maintaining behaviors over time or for developing resilience to fluctuations in reinforcement.

In summary, continuous reinforcement's distinct feature lies in the one-to-one relationship it establishes between the behavior and its reinforcement, thereby aiding in skill acquisition and shaping behavior effectively.