When a rat is first exposed to a new schedule of reinforcement in an operant chamber, the behavior is initially _____ but becomes more _____ over time. The latter pattern is known as _____.
A) constant; variable; steady-state behavior
B) varied; stable; steady-state behavior
C) varied; stable; CRF
D) variable; constant; CRF

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When a rat is first exposed to a new schedule of reinforcement in an operant chamber, its behavior is initially varied as it explores different ways to obtain reinforcement. Over time, as it learns which behaviors are rewarded, its behavior becomes more stable and predictable. This latter pattern is referred to as steady-state behavior, indicating a consistent pattern of responses under a particular schedule of reinforcement.

When a Rat Is First Exposed to a New Schedule