Which of the following best describes a secondary reinforcer?

• A. Money is a secondary reinforcer
• B. Money is a primary reinforcer
• C. A reinforcement schedule where all correct responses are rewarded
• D. A reinforcement schedule based on time intervals

Answer: (A)

Secondary reinforcers gain their value through association with primary needs. Money is a classic example because it has no inherent biological payoff, but it becomes valuable because it can be exchanged for things that satisfy hunger, safety, and other basic needs. The reinforcement you get from money comes from what it can procure, not from directly fulfilling a biological requirement, which is what makes it a secondary reinforcer. In contrast, primary reinforcers—like food, water, or warmth—directly satisfy biological needs without any learning about their value. The other option describes a pattern of delivering reinforcement (how often or when rewards are given), not what type of reinforcer money is, so it doesn’t describe a reinforcer category.