reinforcer
noun
re·in·forc·er
ˌrē-ən-ˈfȯr-sər 
: a stimulus (such as a reward or the removal of an electric shock) that increases the probability of a desired response in operant conditioning by being applied or effected following the desired response
Examples of reinforcer in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Because people compulsively eat huge quantities of food, but the food is a natural reinforcer.
—
Adam Piore, Discover Magazine, 30 Oct. 2014
The present experiment was designed to assess whether paramecium could learn a discrete action as opposed to remaining in a specific area, using cathode shock as a reinforcer.
—Ncbi Rofl, Discover Magazine, 29 Mar. 2011
It was used as a reinforcer to help him do classwork.
—Rafael Olmeda, Sun Sentinel, 22 Aug. 2022
Together, this suggests that relief from distressing emotion acts as a powerful reinforcer, likely increasing the probability that people continue to experience self-injurious thoughts and behaviors.
—Kevin King, The Conversation, 28 Apr. 2022
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Adam Piore, Discover Magazine, 30 Oct. 2014
The present experiment was designed to assess whether paramecium could learn a discrete action as opposed to remaining in a specific area, using cathode shock as a reinforcer.
—Ncbi Rofl, Discover Magazine, 29 Mar. 2011
It was used as a reinforcer to help him do classwork.
—Rafael Olmeda, Sun Sentinel, 22 Aug. 2022
Together, this suggests that relief from distressing emotion acts as a powerful reinforcer, likely increasing the probability that people continue to experience self-injurious thoughts and behaviors.
—Kevin King, The Conversation, 28 Apr. 2022
Dictionary Entries Near reinforcer
Cite this Entry
“Reinforcer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reinforcer. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
reinforcer
noun
re·in·forc·er
ˌrē-ən-ˈfōr-sər
-ˈfȯr-
1
: one that reinforces
2
: a stimulus (as a reward or the removal of something unpleasant) given after a desired action or reply that helps to make the individual act or reply in the same way when the conditions are repeated
Medical Definition
reinforcer
noun
re·in·forc·er
-ˈfōr-sər, -ˈfȯr-
: a stimulus (as a reward or removal of an electric shock) that increases the probability of a desired response in operant conditioning by being applied or removed following the desired response
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