Which statement about fixed vs variable schedules is correct?

Which statement about fixed vs variable schedules is correct?

• A. Fixed schedules deliver reinforcement after a set amount or number of responses.
• B. Variable schedules deliver reinforcement after a predictable number or interval.
• C. Variable schedules deliver reinforcement after an unpredictable number or interval, typically producing steadier and more resistant responding.
• D. Fixed schedules produce steadier responding than variable.

Answer: (C)

Unpredictability in when reinforcement occurs is what makes variable schedules produce steadier and more resistant responding. When reinforcement is delivered after an unpredictable number of responses or after an unpredictable interval, the learner can’t anticipate when the next reinforcement will come, so they keep responding consistently rather than slowing down or pausing. This leads to high, steady response rates and greater resistance to extinction when conditions change. In contrast, fixed schedules reinforce after a set amount of time or a specific number of responses, so behavior often shows clear pauses after reinforcement and bursts of responding when the next reinforcement is expected. That predictability tends to produce less steady rates and weaker resistance to extinction. So the statement that reinforcement occurs after an unpredictable number or interval, producing steadier and more resistant responding, best captures the distinguishing effect of variable schedules.

Unpredictability in when reinforcement occurs is what makes variable schedules produce steadier and more resistant responding. When reinforcement is delivered after an unpredictable number of responses or after an unpredictable interval, the learner can’t anticipate when the next reinforcement will come, so they keep responding consistently rather than slowing down or pausing. This leads to high, steady response rates and greater resistance to extinction when conditions change.

In contrast, fixed schedules reinforce after a set amount of time or a specific number of responses, so behavior often shows clear pauses after reinforcement and bursts of responding when the next reinforcement is expected. That predictability tends to produce less steady rates and weaker resistance to extinction.

So the statement that reinforcement occurs after an unpredictable number or interval, producing steadier and more resistant responding, best captures the distinguishing effect of variable schedules.