Final answer:
Slot machines utilize a variable ratio reinforcement schedule to provide rewards to gamblers, which is effective in promoting a high and constant rate of engagement due to the randomness of the reward delivery. option ( A)
Step-by-step explanation:
Slot machines reward gamblers with money according to a variable ratio reinforcement schedule. In this type of schedule, rewards are given after an unpredictable number of responses, which can lead to a high and steady rate of responses from the individual since they cannot predict when the reward will come. This is similar to the behavior of a gambler using a slot machine, where each pull of the lever is a response that may or may not lead to a win. The reinforcement is based on a random number of responses, encouraging the gambler to continue playing in the hope of that next win.
Contrast this with a fixed ratio reinforcement schedule, where a reward is given after a set number of responses. An example would be a salesperson receiving a commission after selling a certain number of items, like Carla who sells glasses in an eyeglass store. Businesses may use different reinforcement schedules depending on whether they wish to prioritize quantity of output (fixed ratio) or if they require a high engagement level over time without a predictable pattern (variable ratio).