Variable Schedule

Definition

A variable schedule in psychology refers to a schedule of reinforcement where a response is reinforced after an unpredictable number of responses. This creates a steady, high rate of responding.

Analogy

Think about playing the lottery. You don't know exactly when you'll win (if at all), but you keep buying tickets (responding) because there's always that chance for a big payoff (reinforcement).

Related terms

Operant Conditioning: A method of learning that occurs through rewards and punishments for behavior. Through operant conditioning, an individual makes an association between a particular behavior and a consequence.

Reinforcement: In operant conditioning, reinforcement is any event that strengthens or increases the behavior it follows.

Schedule of Reinforcement: The specific pattern of presenting reinforcers over time. This could be based on the passage of time (interval) or the number of responses made (ratio).