The way slot machines reward gamblers with money best illustrates which type of reinforcement schedule in operant conditioning?

• A. Fixed-ratio schedule
• B. Variable-ratio schedule
• C. Fixed-interval schedule
• D. Variable-interval schedule

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of reinforcement schedules in operant conditioning, which describe how and when behaviors are reinforced.
2. Identify that a fixed-ratio schedule provides reinforcement after a set number of responses, while a fixed-interval schedule provides reinforcement after a fixed amount of time.
3. Recognize that a variable-interval schedule provides reinforcement after varying amounts of time, regardless of the number of responses.
4. Note that a variable-ratio schedule provides reinforcement after an unpredictable number of responses, which tends to produce a high and steady rate of responding.
5. Relate this to slot machines, which reward gamblers after an unpredictable number of plays, making the reinforcement schedule a variable-ratio schedule.