A basic need such as food may be used as a ______ reinforcer, whereas a stimulus whose value must be learned is a ______ reinforcer.
A) primary; continuous
B) secondary; shaping
C) primary; secondary
D) continuous; secondary

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A primary reinforcer is something that is inherently reinforcing (like food), while a secondary reinforcer is a neutral stimulus that becomes reinforcing after being associated with a primary reinforcer (like money). Therefore, food would be a primary, while a learned stimulus (like money) would be a secondary reinforcer. Choice C is the only option that correctly identifies primary and secondary reinforcers.

A Basic Need Such as Food May Be Used as a ______