What is Conditioned Reinforcement?
Conditioned Reinforcement refers to things that become reinforcing only because they have been paired with other reinforcers. You were not born liking them; you learned to like them.
Synonyms: Secondary Reinforcer, Learned Reinforcer.
For your RBT practice test, examples are key:
- Tokens / Money: Useless paper/plastic until paired with the shop.
- Praise / Social Attention: "Good job" is just noise until paired with warmth/food/comfort from parents.
- Toys / Electronics: You learn that the iPad provides fun videos.
Generalized Conditioned Reinforcers
These are special secondary reinforcers that can be exchanged for MANY different back-up items.
- Money (Can buy almost anything).
- Tokens (Can buy break time, candy, toys).
The beauty of Generalized Reinforcers is that they are resistant to satiation. You rarely get "tired" of money because it can buy whatever you want right now.
RBT Practice Exam Scenario
Question: "An RBT gives a high-five every time the client answers correctly. What type of reinforcement is this?"
Answer: Conditioned (Secondary). A high-five is a learned social gesture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Conditioned Reinforcement
How do you create a conditioned reinforcer?
By Pairing. You present the neutral item (e.g., a clicker sound) right before giving a treat. Eventually, the clicker becomes reinforcing.
What is a Backup Reinforcer?
The item you "buy" with your tokens. (e.g., You earn 5 stars to buy a cookie. The cookie is the backup).
Why use tokens instead of food?
Tokens don't get messy, they don't cause satiation quickly, and they are easier to deliver immediately.
Is "Good Job" a primary reinforcer?
No, it is Conditioned. We have to learn that praise equals good things.
What if the client doesn't care about tokens?
Then you need to pair them more. Show them that Token = Reward. Without the backup, the token is meaningless.