Which of the following schedules typically results in a resistance to extinction?

The schedule that typically results in resistance to extinction is the variable ratio schedule. This is because, in a variable ratio schedule, reinforcement is provided after an unpredictable number of responses. This unpredictability creates high rates of response and makes it difficult for the learner to determine when the next reinforcement will occur.

Since individuals on a variable ratio schedule have often experienced rewards after varying amounts of effort, they are more likely to continue their behavior even when the reinforcement ceases. The uncertainty of when the next reinforcement could occur keeps individuals engaged in their behavior longer, resulting in greater persistence even in the absence of rewards.

For example, in situations such as gambling, players will continue to play even when they are not winning, because there is the possibility of a big win after an unpredictable number of attempts. This characteristic is what makes variable ratio schedules uniquely effective for maintaining behavior and contributes to their resistance to extinction.

In contrast, other schedules such as fixed ratio or fixed interval typically lead to quicker extinction because the learner can more easily identify the pattern of reinforcement and thus knows when to stop responding once the reinforcement is no longer forthcoming.