A "reward" one gets for merely participating. Although usually given with good intentions, more often than not it will remind the owner that he failed, and that his best is not good enough.
A trophy that is awarded, usually to a child, simply for participating. It is based upon the idea that this will enhance their self-esteem and somehow make them better adults. Despite the fact that there is absolutely no empirical evidence to support this idea, the trophies continue to be awarded. These children ultimately become young adults who can't quite understand why employers in the real world do not share their exalted vision of themselves. Disillusioned and bitter, with plenty of time on their hands, many participated in the Occupy Wall Street movement. Ironically, no trophies were awarded for participation in this event.