External motivators are introduced as an outcome of a response. Which term describes this?

• A. External motivators
• B. Internal motivators
• C. Primary reinforcers
• D. Secondary reinforcers

Answer: (A)

Reinforcement in operant conditioning is a consequence that increases the likelihood a behavior will be repeated. When the motivating outcome is external and not biologically required, it’s something learned to be rewarding. These learned, external rewards are called secondary reinforcers. Examples include praise, grades, or money—they don’t satisfy a basic biological need by themselves, but they gain reinforcing value through association with primary rewards (like food or shelter). Internal motivators, on the other hand, come from within—personal interest or satisfaction. So, external motivators introduced after a response are best described as secondary reinforcers.