I was reading about intermittent reinforcement, like slot machines that keep you coming back and throwing money away, all for that one time you win and it feels so good.

And I thought about the money I pay you and the 100 mile round trip I do every week just to see you. And I thought about the way you responded to me last session, as though you didn't understand or care, and how I'm always sitting there waiting for that amazing feeling when you actually do seem to understand and care, even though you can't provide it consistently. And I was thinking, is this why I dutifully go and put myself through this every week? Just in the hope you will do or say something that will make me feel you care? Is this simply inadvertent operant conditioning?