Which of the Following Is the BEST Example of a Pathological

question 193

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is the BEST example of a pathological aging factor?

• A) Joan carries a dominant gene that codes for the development of cancer.
• B) Bob carries a recessive gene that puts him at risk for developing heart problems.
• C) Luke has been severely obese since childhood, and he is now developing diabetes.
• D) Charlene is developing osteoporosis as the result of normal aging processes.

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Definitions:

Variable-Ratio

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

Fixed-Interval

A reinforcement schedule in which the first response after a certain time period has passed is rewarded.

Variable-Interval

A schedule of reinforcement where a response is rewarded after an unpredictable period of time has passed, promoting a steady, consistent response rate.

Fixed-Ratio

A schedule of reinforcement where a response is reinforced only after a specified number of responses, often used in behavior modification programs.