When aiming to increase task levels for a phonology patient with good response to verbal reinforcement, what should be the logical adjustment in the treatment plan?

The most effective adjustment in the treatment plan, given the context of a phonology patient who responds well to verbal reinforcement, is to change the reinforcement schedule to variable-interval. This approach would enhance the patient's motivation and encourage more consistent performance.

Incorporating a variable-interval schedule means that reinforcement is provided after varying lengths of time, rather than after a fixed number of responses or intervals. This unpredictability can help maintain the patient's interest and engagement, as they cannot predict when reinforcement will occur. As a result, they may be more inclined to continue producing correct phonological responses in anticipation of positive reinforcement at random intervals, rather than becoming dependent on immediate feedback.

In contrast, keeping continuous reinforcement at a higher task level, such as conversation, might not adequately challenge the patient or foster independence, as it could lead to reliance on immediate praise. Discontinuing reinforcement and merely providing a performance summary does not effectively sustain motivation, and shifting feedback to punishment can create a negative learning environment, potentially harming the patient's confidence and willingness to engage in therapy. Thus, adjusting to a variable-interval reinforcement schedule is a progressive step that balances challenge with supportive feedback.