AP Psychology Practice Test

What describes a variable-interval schedule?

1. A schedule that reinforces a response at unpredictable time intervals

2. Reinforcing a response only after a specific number of responses have been made

3. A schedule that reinforces every instance of a desired response

4. A schedule where the time between reinforcements varies around a fixed average

The correct answer is: A schedule that reinforces a response at unpredictable time intervals

A variable-interval schedule is characterized by reinforcing a response at unpredictable time intervals. This means that after the first response is made, the reinforcement could come at any unpredictable time in the future, as long as it is within the general average time interval. This unpredictability helps to maintain a steady rate of responding because the individual cannot predict exactly when the reinforcement will occur. In contrast, the other options describe different types of reinforcement schedules: - Option B describes a fixed-ratio schedule, where reinforcement is given after a specific number of responses. - Option C describes a continuous reinforcement schedule, where every instance of the desired response is reinforced. - Option D describes a variable-ratio schedule, where the number of responses required for reinforcement varies around an average number.