Which type of reinforcement schedule produces a high and steady rate of response?

Variable ratio reinforcement is recognized for producing a high and steady rate of response because it involves delivering reinforcement after an unpredictable number of responses. This unpredictability keeps individuals engaged, as they are motivated to continue responding in hopes of receiving a reward. For example, in gambling scenarios, players continue to play because they might win after a variable number of bets, leading to persistent behavior.

In contrast, continuous reinforcement provides a reward after every single response, which can lead to fast learning but often results in a quick decrease in responses once the reinforcement stops. Fixed interval reinforcement rewards behaviors after a set amount of time has passed, leading to a pattern of responses that may occur right before the time when reinforcement is expected but can drop off immediately afterward. Fixed ratio reinforcement offers rewards after a specified number of responses are made, which can produce a fast response rate but may lead to pauses after reinforcement is received as the subject takes a break before gearing up for the next required responses.

In summary, variable ratio reinforcement is effective for sustaining a high level of engagement and response rate due to its unpredictable nature, which fuels a continuous desire for the reward.