How does a reward differ from a reinforcer?

The distinction between a reward and a reinforcer centers around their definitions and implications in behavioral contexts. A reinforcer is defined as a stimulus that increases the likelihood of a behavior occurring again in the future when it is presented following that behavior. The key aspect is that a reinforcer's effectiveness is grounded in empirical evidence and observation regarding the behavior it influences, where it has been shown to reliably increase the probability of a desired behavior being repeated.

In contrast, a reward does not inherently guarantee that the desired behavior will occur again. While a reward might reinforce a behavior, it does not carry the same analytical weight as a reinforcer, which is understood in terms of its consistent long-term effects on behavior. Furthermore, a reward does not need to be delivered immediately after the behavior for it to be considered a reward, nor does it have to be a tangible item—rewards can include verbal praise, intangible recognition, or other forms of acknowledgment that might not be directly observable or measurable.

Understanding this distinction is vital for practitioners in order to effectively apply behavior modification techniques and to select appropriate interventions for individuals with autism.