Gambling and lottery games are good examples of a reward based on a variable-ratio schedule.
Each schedule of reinforcement has its own unique set of characteristics.
Characteristics of Variable-Ratio Schedules
There are three common characteristics of a variable-ratio schedule.
Illustration by Brianna Gilmartin, Verywell
“Ratio” suggests that the reinforcement is given after a set number of responses.
Together, the term means that reinforcement is delivered after a varied number of responses.
It might also be helpful to contrast the variable-ratio schedule of reinforcement with thefixed-ratio schedule of reinforcement.
In a fixed-ratio schedule, reinforcement is provided after a set number of responses.
This would mean that for every five responses, a reward is presented.
Where the variable-ratio schedule is unpredictable, the fixed-ratio schedule is set and predictable.
Here are a few examples to consider.
James RJE, O’Malley C, Tunney RJ.Understanding the psychology of mobile gambling: A behavioural synthesis.Br J Psychol.
2017;108(3):608625. doi:10.1111/bjop.12226
Comparative Cognition Library University of Iowa.Schedule of reinforcement.
2009 Apr;35(2):152].J Exp Psychol Anim Behav Process.
2009;35(1):3550. doi:10.1037/a0012497
