The difference between a reinforcer and a punisher is that:
A) reinforcers are primary and punishers are secondary.
B) punishers are primary and reinforcers are secondary.
C) reinforcers strengthen behaviour and punishers weaken behaviour.
D) reinforcers are positive and punishers are negative.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The main difference between a reinforcer and a punisher is their effect on behavior. Reinforcers are stimuli that increase the likelihood of a behavior being repeated, while punishers are stimuli that decrease the likelihood of a behavior being repeated. Therefore, choice C is the best answer as it correctly states that reinforcers strengthen behavior and punishers weaken behavior. Choices A and B are incorrect because neither reinforcers nor punishers are inherently primary or secondary. Choice D is incorrect because both reinforcers and punishers can be either positive or negative depending on their presentation or removal.

The Difference Between a Reinforcer and a Punisher Is That