Why do variable-ratio schedules produce steady rates of responding?
A)Reinforcers are delivered on a regular basis.
B)Aversive consequences are less likely to occur with this schedule of reinforcement.
C)It is not possible to predict which response will lead to the delivery of a reinforcer.
D)The timing between reinforcers is predictable although the number of responses may vary.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Variable-ratio schedules produce steady rates of responding because it is not possible to predict which response will lead to the delivery of a reinforcer. This uncertainty causes individuals to continue responding at a steady rate in the hopes that the next response will result in reinforcement.

Why Do Variable-Ratio Schedules Produce Steady Rates of Responding