Which of the following are examples of contingency rewards?

• A. Merit increases, employee of the month
• B. Praise, and friendly interactions
• C. Merit increases, employee of the month, praise, and friendly interactions
• D. Bonus for attendance only

Answer: (C)

Contingency rewards are incentives given only when a defined criterion is met or a desired behavior is demonstrated. Merit increases are tied to performance, so they’re a classic contingency reward. Being recognized as employee of the month is earned through sustained achievement, another contingent form. Praise is positive feedback delivered in response to meeting standards, reinforcing the right behavior, and friendly interactions can act as social rewards when they’re given in response to cooperative or productive actions. Even a bonus for attendance qualifies because it depends on meeting the attendance criterion. Since all four items are rewards provided conditionally based on outcomes or behavior, they together illustrate contingency rewards, making this the best answer.