What is an example of a Secondary Reinforcer?

A secondary reinforcer is a stimulus that has acquired its reinforcing properties through association with primary reinforcers. Primary reinforcers are inherently satisfying and biologically necessary, such as food, water, or warmth. In contrast, secondary reinforcers, such as money, gain their value because they can be traded for primary reinforcers or serve as symbols of social status and success.

Money is typically used as an example of a secondary reinforcer because it does not provide intrinsic satisfaction on its own but can be exchanged for food, shelter, and other necessities for survival. Its value is derived from what it can acquire, not from any intrinsic properties. This distinction underscores the importance of learned associations in behavior and motivation, highlighting how certain stimuli can influence behavior based on past experiences with primary reinforcers.