Reinforcer
Also called: reinforcing stimulus, reward
Definition
A stimulus change that, delivered as a consequence of a behavior, increases the future frequency of that behavior. The label is earned by effect, not by intention: an item is a reinforcer only if the data show the behavior it follows going up, and what reinforces one person's behavior may do nothing for another's.
In plain language
Something that makes a behavior happen more when it follows that behavior. It only counts if it actually works.
Example
A learner who is handed the tablet after asking clearly asks clearly more often. For that behavior, the tablet is a reinforcer.
Not reinforcer
Stickers handed out after every task that the learner ignores, with no change in the behavior. Calling them a reward does not make them a reinforcer.
See also
Written from
- skinner-1953
Written from Skinner (1953). No textbook glossary consulted.
This entry has not yet been through clinical review. Treat it as a draft.