In operant conditioning, why might reinforcement attempts fail to modify behavior if the reinforcer is not important or valued by the subject?

• A. Because all reinforcers are equally effective regardless of the subject's preferences.
• B. Because the subject is less likely to be motivated to perform the behavior if the reinforcer does not meet their needs or preferences.
• C. Because operant conditioning does not rely on reinforcers to change behavior.
• D. Because reinforcement only works when punishment is also used.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the basic principle of operant conditioning: behavior is influenced by its consequences, specifically reinforcements that increase the likelihood of the behavior recurring.
2. Recognize that a reinforcer must be meaningful or valued by the subject to effectively motivate behavior change; if the reinforcer does not satisfy the subject's needs or preferences, it loses its motivational power.
3. Consider the concept of motivation in operant conditioning, which depends on the subject perceiving the reinforcer as desirable or rewarding; without this, the subject has little incentive to perform the behavior.
4. Acknowledge that not all reinforcers are equally effective for every individual or situation; the effectiveness depends on the subject's current state, preferences, and what they find rewarding.
5. Conclude that reinforcement attempts fail when the reinforcer is not important or valued because the subject lacks motivation to engage in the behavior, highlighting the necessity of selecting appropriate reinforcers in operant conditioning.