Final answer:
It is true that a reinforcer can be considered a type of reward. In operant conditioning, reinforcers are used to increase behavior and can be primary (having innate value) or secondary (having value through association with primary reinforcers).
Step-by-step explanation:
Reinforcer is a term used in operant conditioning, a learning process studied by B. F. Skinner. It is true that a reinforcer can be considered a 'reward'; however, in the context of operant conditioning, a reinforcer is specifically defined as an implementation of a consequence in order to increase a behavior. This consequence can be positive, where something desirable is added, such as food, praise, or money, which are external rewards. Alternatively, it can be negative, where something aversive is removed to increase the likelihood of the behavior being repeated. While rewards typically imply only positive items or outcomes given after a desired behavior, reinforcers include both positive and negative elements that strengthen a behavior.
A primary reinforcer has innate reinforcing qualities like food, water, and pleasure. In contrast, a secondary reinforcer, such as money or stickers, does not have inherent value and only gains its reinforcing properties through association with a primary reinforcer.