What Is One of the Major Reasons That Psychologists Use

question 6

Multiple Choice

What is one of the major reasons that psychologists use operational definitions?

• A)to comply with legal requirements
• B)to identify all the extraneous variables
• C)so that effects can be measured
• D)to explain research results so that nonpsychologists can understand

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Definitions:

Variable-Ratio Schedule

A reinforcement schedule in which a response is rewarded after an unpredictable number of responses, leading to high and steady rates of response.

Postreinforcement Pause

A cessation of behavior following reinforcement on a ratio schedule, which is followed by resumption of responding at the intensity characteristic of that ratio schedule.

Behavioral Contrast

The phenomenon where the rate of response to one stimulus changes as a consequence of a change in reinforcement conditions for another stimulus.

Variable-Interval Schedule

A Variable-Interval Schedule is a type of reinforcement schedule where responses are reinforced after varying intervals of time, making the reinforcement unpredictable.