Which statement best describes a motivating operation (MO)?

• A. It signals the availability of reinforcement.
• B. It changes the current value of a reinforcer.
• C. It results in punishment.
• D. It is the same as an SD.

Answer: (B)

Motivating operations change how valuable a consequence is in the moment, which then alters how likely you are to emit a behavior that produces that consequence. The key idea is that the MO changes the current value of a reinforcer, making it more or less reinforcing depending on the circumstance. For example, after not eating for a while, food becomes more reinforcing, so food-seeking behavior is more likely. Conversely, if you’re full, food is less reinforcing, and the same behavior is less likely.

That’s why the statement describing changing the current value of a reinforcer is the best match. An SD signals that reinforcement is available, which is a different concept. MOs don’t inherently signal reinforcement; they modulate how strong the reinforcer is. The idea that an MO results in punishment or is the same as an SD also mischaracterizes what MOs do.