conditioned reinforcer psychology definition

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14-10-2024

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Conditioned Reinforcers: How We Learn to Want Things

Have you ever noticed how the sound of a notification on your phone can make you feel excited, even though the notification itself isn't inherently exciting? This is an example of a conditioned reinforcer in action.

What is a Conditioned Reinforcer?

A conditioned reinforcer, also known as a secondary reinforcer, is a stimulus that acquires its reinforcing properties through association with a primary reinforcer. In simpler terms, it's something that we learn to want because it's been linked to something we already like.

Understanding the Basics

To understand conditioned reinforcers, let's first define primary reinforcers. These are stimuli that are inherently reinforcing, meaning they satisfy a basic biological need like food, water, or sex. They are often called unconditioned reinforcers, as they do not require prior learning to be effective.

According to B. F. Skinner (1953), a leading figure in behavioral psychology, the process of conditioning a reinforcer involves pairing a neutral stimulus with a primary reinforcer. Through repeated pairings, the neutral stimulus acquires the reinforcing properties of the primary reinforcer.

Examples of Conditioned Reinforcers

• Money: Money itself doesn't provide basic needs, but it's been associated with the ability to purchase food, shelter, and other necessities. Thus, it becomes a conditioned reinforcer.
• Praise: Praise is often associated with positive emotions and approval, both of which are inherently reinforcing. As a result, praise becomes a conditioned reinforcer that can motivate us to repeat behaviors.
• A-plus grades: These grades are linked to the satisfaction of academic achievement and the potential for future success. This association makes them conditioned reinforcers, motivating students to study and perform well.

The Power of Conditioned Reinforcers

Conditioned reinforcers play a crucial role in shaping our behavior. They are used extensively in:

• Education: Teachers use praise, stickers, and good grades as conditioned reinforcers to motivate students to learn.
• Therapy: Therapists utilize tokens, points, and other conditioned reinforcers to reward desired behaviors in patients.
• Marketing: Companies use catchy jingles, attractive packaging, and celebrity endorsements to create positive associations with their products, turning them into conditioned reinforcers.

Practical Implications

Understanding conditioned reinforcers can help us:

• Motivate ourselves: By consciously pairing enjoyable activities with tasks we find less enjoyable, we can use conditioned reinforcers to motivate ourselves.
• Shape the behavior of others: Parents, teachers, and therapists can effectively use conditioned reinforcers to encourage desired behaviors in children and clients.
• Be more mindful of our own behavior: By recognizing the power of conditioned reinforcers, we can become more aware of how our behaviors are shaped by external stimuli.

Conclusion

Conditioned reinforcers are a powerful tool for shaping behavior, both for ourselves and others. By understanding their role in our everyday lives, we can gain a deeper insight into the complexities of learning and motivation.

References

• Skinner, B. F. (1953). Science and human behavior. Macmillan.
• For further reading: "Conditioned reinforcement" in Principles of Behavior by James M. Mazur (2005). This book offers a comprehensive discussion on the topic.