Definition

1. Noun:
   • A reinforcing stimulus that serves to increase the likelihood of the response that produces it: In behavioral psychology, a "positive reinforcer" is any favorable event or outcome presented after a behavior, which makes that behavior more likely to occur again in the future.

Usage

• The term is used primarily in the context of behavioral science, psychology, education, and training. It describes a consequence that strengthens a target behavior.
• It is a key concept in operant conditioning, often contrasted with a "negative reinforcer" (which involves the of an unfavorable stimulus to strengthen a behavior).

Examples

• Noun:
  • Giving a dog a treat for sitting on command is a classic example of a positive reinforcer.
  • In the classroom, praise from the teacher can be a powerful positive reinforcer for student participation.
  • The bonus acted as a positive reinforcer, encouraging the sales team to exceed their targets.

Advanced Usage

• "Primary positive reinforcer": A reinforcer that is innately satisfying, such as food, water, or comfort.
  • For a hungry animal, food is a primary positive reinforcer.
• "Conditioned (or secondary) positive reinforcer": A stimulus that gains its reinforcing power through association with a primary reinforcer, such as money, grades, or tokens.
  • Money is a conditioned positive reinforcer because it can be exchanged for primary rewards.

Variants and Related Words

• Positive reinforcement (n): The process or procedure of using a positive reinforcer to strengthen a behavior.
  • The trainer uses positive reinforcement to teach new tricks.
• Reinforcer (n): A more general term for any stimulus that increases the likelihood of a behavior.
• Reinforce (v): To strengthen a behavior by providing a consequence.

Synonyms

• Reward: Something given in recognition of service, effort, or achievement. (Note: In technical contexts, "reward" is often used interchangeably with "positive reinforcer," though "reinforcer" is defined by its functional effect on behavior.)
• Incentive: A thing that motivates or encourages someone to do something.

Related Phrases

• "To serve as a positive reinforcer": To function as a stimulus that increases behavior.
  • The immediate feedback from the app served as a positive reinforcer for daily language practice.

Noun

1. a reinforcing stimulus that serves to increase the likelihood of the response that produces it