Final answer:
The statement that variable schedules generate higher rates of responding than fixed schedules is true. Variable schedules, like variable ratio, result in unpredictable reinforcement and therefore higher, more consistent responses compared to the pauses after reinforcement seen in fixed schedules.
Step-by-step explanation:
Given the same frequency of reinforcement, variable schedules generate higher rates of responding than do fixed schedules. This statement is true. There are four main types of reinforcement schedules: fixed ratio, variable ratio, fixed interval, and variable interval. A variable ratio reinforcement schedule results in high and steady response rates because the number of responses needed for a reward is unpredictable, much like gambling at slot machines. With a fixed ratio reinforcement schedule, a set number of responses must occur before a behavior is rewarded, leading to a high response rate with a short pause after reinforcement, as seen with a saleswoman who is motivated to sell as many eyeglasses as possible to earn a commission. The fixed interval reinforcement schedule is characterized by a scallop-shaped response pattern with a significant pause after reinforcement, such as a patient waiting for surgery. Meanwhile, the variable interval schedule, being unpredictable, produces a moderate, steady response rate without the post-reinforcement pauses seen in other schedules.