What is an example of a social reinforcer?

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An example of a social reinforcer is a teacher calling attention to a student's well-articulated answer during class. This act serves to acknowledge and validate the student's effort and achievement, providing them with positive social interaction and recognition. In educational psychology, social reinforcers are crucial because they can enhance students' motivation and engagement; they thrive on positive feedback and acknowledgment from peers and authority figures. By highlighting a student's contribution, the teacher not only boosts the individual student's confidence but also encourages others to engage more actively in class discussions, fostering a supportive learning environment.

In contrast, other options do not entirely fit the definition of social reinforcement. Ignoring classroom disruptions may inadvertently allow disruptive behavior to persist, while a student receiving a prize, although a form of reinforcement, is a tangible rather than a social reward. Feedback from peers can certainly be valuable, but it may not always serve as an explicit reinforcement coming from an authority figure within the classroom context, which is often a key aspect of social reinforcement.

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