Concept

Primary Reinforcer

Primary reinforcers are stimuli that possess innate, unlearned reinforcing qualities because they satisfy biological or inherent needs. Organisms do not need to be taught to find these reinforcers rewarding. Common examples include fundamental necessities like food, water, sleep, and shelter, as well as other intrinsic drivers such as physical touch, sex, and pleasure. The drive for these reinforcers is persistent and does not typically diminish.

0

1

Updated 2026-04-30

Tags

Psychology

Social Science

Empirical Science

Science

Ch.5 Sensation and Perception - Psychology @ OpenStax

OpenStax

Psychology @ OpenStax

Ch.6 Learning - Psychology @ OpenStax

Introduction to Psychology @ OpenStax Course

OpenStax Psychology (2nd ed.) Textbook

Related