Generalized Conditioned Reinforcer
Also called: generalized reinforcer
Definition
A conditioned reinforcer that has been paired with many different reinforcers and so works under a wide range of motivating conditions. Money and tokens are the standard examples: their value does not depend on the learner being deprived of any one thing.
In plain language
A learned reward that works almost any time, because it can be swapped for many different things. Money and tokens are the classic examples.
Example
Tokens that can be traded for snacks, games, or a walk keep working even after the learner has just eaten.
Not generalized conditioned reinforcer
A token that can only ever be exchanged for one specific toy. Once the learner is tired of the toy, the token stops working.
See also
Written from
- skinner-1953
- kazdin-1977-token
Written from Skinner (1953) and Kazdin (1977). No textbook glossary consulted.
This entry has not yet been through clinical review. Treat it as a draft.