Variable rewards are an essential element in the psychology of motivation. They are designed to keep people engaged, motivated, and coming back for more. In this blog post, we will explore the concept of variable rewards, how they work, and how they can be used to increase engagement and retention in various contexts.
The Science Behind Variable Rewards
Variable rewards are built on the concept of operant conditioning. Operant conditioning is a type of learning in which behavior is modified by the consequences that follow it. When a behavior is followed by a reward, it is more likely to be repeated in the future. However, if the reward is always the same, the behavior may become less frequent over time. This is where variable rewards come in.
Variable rewards are unpredictable, which makes them more exciting and satisfying. The human brain is wired to seek out patterns and predictability, so when we are rewarded randomly, our brains release dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and motivation. This dopamine release creates a sense of excitement and anticipation, which makes the reward more satisfying than a predictable one.
Examples of Variable Rewards
Variable rewards can be found in many aspects of our lives, from gambling and gaming to social media and shopping. For example, many mobile games use variable rewards to keep players engaged. The rewards may be randomized, such as getting a rare item from a loot box, or they may be tied to a player’s progress, such as unlocking a new level after completing a certain number of tasks.
Social media platforms also use variable rewards to keep users engaged. Notifications are a classic example of variable rewards. They are unpredictable, and users never know when they will receive them or what they will say. This unpredictability makes users more likely to check their notifications regularly, which keeps them engaged with the platform.
Finally, eCommerce businesses use variable rewards to encourage repeat purchases. Loyalty programs, discount codes, and free gifts are all examples of variable rewards that encourage customers to come back and shop again.
Conclusion
Variable rewards are a powerful tool for increasing engagement and motivation. By using unpredictable rewards, we can keep people engaged and motivated, whether in gaming, social media, or eCommerce. When used correctly, variable rewards can help businesses and organizations achieve their goals while providing a positive experience for their users or customers.
