Interlocking Patterns of Conditional Probability: The Reinforcement Matrix‪.‬

Abstract To further integrated behavioral and ecobehavioral models, we introduce the idea of the reinforcement matrix. We define the reinforcement matrix as relatively stable patterns of interlocking contingencies. We can conceptualize this matrix at the ontological level, consisting of varying reinforcement density of dynamic interaction. These interactions occur between interlocking elements of the social and nonsocial environment. Multiple layers of interlocking patterns increase stability and resistance of the ecology to change. These multiple environmental influences act on the organism and lead to gradual shifts in behavior over time. These behavioral shifts are economical in nature based on fluctuations in reinforcement rates, amount of reinforcement, movement toward least effort, and decreasing delay and uncertainty. While relatively stable, the entire process drifts slowly overtime. We identify and discussed factors that lead to this drift. The role of metacontingencies, which can lead to rapid shifts or even disturbances in the matrix are discussed. We make suggestions for the study of communities and the development of technology.