Asking women for dates is most likely to be reinforced on a ________ schedule.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A variable-ratio reinforcement schedule is the most effective for maintaining a behavior. In this case, asking women for dates is the behavior being reinforced, and the variable-ratio schedule refers to an unpredictable number of attempts before receiving reinforcement (i.e. getting a date). This is similar to a slot machine where a variable number of attempts is required before winning. The unpredictability of reinforcement tends to increase the persistence of the behavior.

Asking Women for Dates Is Most Likely to Be Reinforced