A pigeon is presented with a blue key and a red key alternatively. In the presence of the blue key, it earns food on a VI 30-sec schedule. In the presence of the red key, it earns food on a VI 15-sec schedule. The VI 30-sec schedule is then changed to a VI 60-sec schedule. As a result, the rate of response on the VI 15-sec schedule _____, illustrating a _____ contrast effect.
A) decreases; negative
B) increases; negative
C) decreases; positive
D) increases; positive

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The rate of response on the VI 15-sec schedule increases, illustrating a positive contrast effect. This occurs because the difference in the value of the two schedules has increased, making the VI 15-sec schedule relatively more attractive and thus increasing the rate of response to it.

A Pigeon Is Presented with a Blue Key and a Red