Question

Billy often throws tantrums in stores if his mom does not give in to his requests for candy. She usually ignores his tantrums, but every so often she gives in when it is inconvenient to argue. He is being reinforced on which schedule?

a. Variable-ratio reinforcement schedule
b. Variable-interval reinforcement schedule
c. Fixed-ratio reinforcement schedule
d. Fixed-interval reinforcement schedule

Answer 1

Billy is being reinforced on a variable ratio reinforcement schedule. In this schedule, the number of responses needed for a reward varies.

Step-by-step explanation:

Billy is being reinforced on a variable ratio reinforcement schedule. In this schedule, the number of responses needed for a reward varies. Billy's tantrums are occasionally rewarded with candy, which makes it difficult to stop the behavior.