I recently have seen an increase in the use of the word “reward” when speaking/writing about training. One of the tenets of my teaching is the use of the correct terminology when speaking or writing about behavior and training. The science is clear about the correct term for a stimulus that increases or maintains behavior when delivered contingent on and contiguous with the behavior; it is reinforcer. By using this term one communicates clearly that the stimulus is proven to increase or maintain the behavior, this proof comes from previous presentations of the stimulus and the observed maintenance or increase in the behavior. The term “reward” is not a part of the lexicon of the science of behavior change, its definition is:
… a thing given in recognition of one’s service, effort, or achievement.
“the holiday was a reward for 40 years’ service with the company”
synonyms: recompense, prize, award, honor, decoration, bonus, premium, bounty, present, gift, payment;
More: fair return for good or bad behavior.
“a slap on the face was his reward for his impudence
“a sum offered for the detection of a criminal, the restoration of lost property, or the giving of information.
synonyms: recompense, prize, award, honor, decoration, bonus, premium, bounty, present, gift, payment;
The important point to note is that a reward does not imply any change in the future behavior. However, with the term “reinforcer” the stimulus only gets that name if in the future the behavior it follows is maintained or increased.
An important part of behavior and training is communication, and communication only works when those communicating speak the same language. Learning and using the correct terminology is a part of being a good, effective trainer. It empowers the trainer to communicate clearly, and precisely, with their peers and leads to a better understanding of the behavior.
If you would like to learn more about training and behavior, register for the 14th Annual Raptor Handling Class. Register before June 12, 2017 to receive the benefit of our early-bird price.
Keep soaring,
Sid