A variable ratio schedule is applied to operant learning. It is the rate in which a reinforcement (reward) for a particular behavior is obtained. A variable ratio schedule is when the reinforcement is sometimes won, sometimes not won.
Example:
1. Casinos. The reinforcement would be the money won. Sometimes the money is won, but sometimes it isn't.
2. Abusive relationships. Sometimes the partner that is doing the abuse is nice, sometimes he/she isn't nice. The "kindness" is the reinforcement.
The behavior is the same, but the rate in which the reinforcement is obtained varies.
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A variable ratio schedule is a reinforcement schedule in operant conditioning where rewards are given after a varying number of responses. This type of schedule leads to high and steady rates of responding because individuals are unsure when the next reward will be received. It is often used to maintain behavior over a long period of time.
The four schedules of reinforcement are fixed ratio, variable ratio, fixed interval, and variable interval. Fixed ratio provides reinforcement after a set number of responses, variable ratio provides reinforcement after a variable number of responses, fixed interval provides reinforcement after a set amount of time has passed, and variable interval provides reinforcement after a variable amount of time has passed. These schedules can influence the frequency and consistency of behavior.
A variable ratio schedule of reinforcement is best for building persistence. This schedule provides reinforcement after a varying number of desired behaviors, which helps to maintain consistent motivation and effort over time. The unpredictability of reinforcement keeps individuals engaged and persevering in their actions.
Individuals are least likely to satiate on variable ratio schedules of reinforcement. This is because reinforcement is given after a variable number of responses, leading to a consistent level of motivation and engagement in the behavior.
A schedule of reinforcement that is based on the number of responses is called a ratio schedule. In ratio schedules, reinforcement is given after a specific number of responses. This type of schedule often leads to high rates of responding by the individual compared to other schedules.
The two schedules of reinforcement that produce the most effective rates of response are continuous reinforcement, where each desired behavior is reinforced every time it occurs, and variable ratio reinforcement, where reinforcement is delivered after an unpredictable number of responses. These schedules are effective in maintaining high rates of responding and reducing the likelihood of behavior extinction.