What is a secondary reinforcer?

A secondary reinforcer is a type of reinforcer that has acquired its reinforcing properties through association with a primary reinforcer. Primary reinforcers are stimuli that are inherently rewarding, such as food, water, or sex, whereas secondary reinforcers are stimuli that have been paired with primary reinforcers and have come to be associated with them.

Secondary reinforcers can include things like praise, money, tokens, or even social approval. These stimuli may not have any inherent value on their own, but they become reinforcing because they are associated with primary reinforcers. For example, money is a secondary reinforcer because it can be exchanged for primary reinforcers like food or shelter.

Secondary reinforcers are often used in behavior modification programs to motivate individuals to engage in desired behaviors. By pairing secondary reinforcers with primary reinforcers, individuals can be encouraged to continue engaging in positive behaviors. This process is known as classical conditioning.

Overall, secondary reinforcers play an important role in shaping behavior and can be powerful motivators in helping individuals achieve their goals.