discontinuous reward
[/ˌdɪskənˈtɪnjuəs rɪˈwɔːrd/]
nounpl: discontinuous rewards
recompensa descontínua
1. A reinforcement or reward that is given at irregular intervals or non-consecutive occasions, rather than continuously or on a fixed schedule
The slot machine operates on a discontinuous reward schedule, paying out winnings at unpredictable intervals.
A máquina caça-níqueis funciona com um esquema de recompensa descontínua, pagando prêmios em intervalos imprevisíveis.
2. In behavioral psychology and operant conditioning, reinforcement that is intermittent and not provided after every desired behavior
Studies show that discontinuous reward systems can actually create stronger behavioral patterns than continuous reinforcement.
Estudos mostram que sistemas de recompensa descontínua podem realmente criar padrões comportamentais mais fortes do que o reforço contínuo.
This term is primarily used in academic and scientific contexts, particularly in psychology, behavioral economics, and artificial intelligence research. It is common in both American and Brazilian educational institutions. The concept is widely studied because discontinuous rewards often create stronger behavioral patterns than continuous rewards—a principle famously demonstrated by B.F. Skinner's experiments with pigeons and rats, and now applied to understanding gambling addiction and video game design.
Look up more words on Fala2Me
The free English-Portuguese dictionary with real Brazilian accents, NYC slang, conjugator and more
Open Fala2Me →