generalized matching law

in behavioral studies, a formula in the form of a power function (y = ax^b ) that describes the choice between two alternatives in terms of the ratio (y) of rates of occurrence of (or time spent in) each alternative and the ratio (x) of the rates of reinforcement of the two alternatives. The exponent (b) of the function indexes sensitivity to reinforcement rates, and the coefficient (a) indexes inherent bias for one of the alternatives. When both a and b are equal to 1.0, the formula makes the same prediction as the matching law.

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Psychology term of the day

January 24th 2025

antecedent variable

any variable that precedes a response variable. For example, in regression analysis it is the independent variable, and in path analysis it is the variable beginning a chain of causal links. Compare consequent variable.