Which term describes rewards delivered on a random basis?

Which term describes rewards delivered on a random basis?

• A. Fixed
• B. Interval
• C. Ratio
• D. Variable

Answer: (D)

Unpredictability in when rewards occur is the key idea. Rewards delivered on a random basis come under a variable schedule, where either the time between rewards or the number of responses required changes from one reinforcement to the next. This variability makes the rewards feel unpredictable, which typically yields persistent, high responding. In contrast, fixed means a reward is given after a set amount of time or a set number of responses, so it’s predictable. Interval schedules base rewards on time, while ratio schedules base rewards on responses. So the term that best captures randomness in reinforcement delivery is variable.

Unpredictability in when rewards occur is the key idea. Rewards delivered on a random basis come under a variable schedule, where either the time between rewards or the number of responses required changes from one reinforcement to the next. This variability makes the rewards feel unpredictable, which typically yields persistent, high responding. In contrast, fixed means a reward is given after a set amount of time or a set number of responses, so it’s predictable. Interval schedules base rewards on time, while ratio schedules base rewards on responses. So the term that best captures randomness in reinforcement delivery is variable.