Which of the following is an example of secondary reinforcement?

Secondary reinforcement involves stimuli that have acquired their reinforcing quality through association with primary reinforcers. Primary reinforcers, such as food and water, fulfill basic biological needs and naturally reinforce behavior without prior learning. In contrast, secondary reinforcers are effectively learned and often require an interaction with primary reinforcers to gain their value.

Toys exemplify secondary reinforcement because they typically do not fulfill a biological need on their own but can be highly desirable and reinforcing due to experiences and the value they have gained through association with primary reinforcers or social approval. For instance, a child may receive toys as a reward after exhibiting positive behavior, making the toys reinforcing due to their learned association with pleasure, fun, or praise.

This understanding of secondary reinforcement highlights its role in behavioral modification strategies, especially in communication disorders, where secondary reinforcers can motivate individuals to engage in desirable behaviors effectively.