We use reinforcement to increase appropriate behaviors. The effectiveness of reinforcement depends on an individual’s preference. While some items or activities are preferred for some individuals, they may be aversion for others. When using positive reinforcement, we must ensure that the reinforces we are presenting actually function as reinforces. Also, keep in mind that just because you may like or enjoy something, it does not mean you will respond to gain access. One may like doing puzzles, but one may not be willing to run five miles to gain access to a puzzle.
List five preferred items or activities that you enjoy.
Categorize these five items or activities into primary or secondary reinforces.
Explain why each is an example of a primary reinforce or a secondary reinforce. What primary reinforces are the secondary reinforces (if any) likely paired with?
Speculate how they may have come to be secondary reinforces (if any are secondary reinforces). What were the primary reinforces with which they may have been paired?
