Variable-Ratio Schedule
Also called: VR schedule, VR
Definition
A schedule in which reinforcement follows a number of responses that varies around an average — VR 5 means five responses on average, but any given reinforcer might come after two or nine. It produces high, steady responding with little pausing and is highly resistant to extinction. Slot machines run on it.
In plain language
A reward after a number of responses that changes each time but averages out. Very steady behavior, and hard to stop.
Example
Praise comes after the second correct answer, then the sixth, then the third, averaging about every fourth.
Not variable-ratio schedule
Praise after exactly every fourth answer, every time. That is a fixed ratio.
Commonly confused with
See also
Written from
- ferster-skinner-1957
Written from Ferster and Skinner (1957). No textbook glossary consulted.
This entry has not yet been through clinical review. Treat it as a draft.