token economies

token economy

A system where participants earn generalized conditioned reinforcers for specific behaviors, accumulating tokens to exchange for backup reinforcers.

Unconditioned Responses

Responses that are reinforcing without prior learning, such as food when hungry.

Conditioned Responses

Responses that have become reinforcers by being paired with other reinforcers.

Primary Reinforcers

Also known as unconditioned reinforcers, they satisfy basic biological needs.

Examples of Primary Reinforcers

Food, water, comfort, sleep, warmth.

Secondary Reinforcers

Also known as conditioned reinforcers, these have value due to association with primary reinforcers.

Examples of Secondary Reinforcers

Tokens, money, praise, grades, awards, points on video games.

Backup Reinforcers

Items or experiences that can be earned by exchanging tokens in a token economy.

Generalized Conditioned Reinforcer

A conditioned reinforcer that has been paired with many other reinforcers, not dependent on a specific current EO.

Intrinsic Value of Tokens

Tokens have no intrinsic value; their value is established through association with reinforcers.

Commonly Used Tokens

Points, tally marks, plastic strips, checkers, coupons, poker chips, or hole punched in cards.

Effectiveness of Tokens

Tokens bridge the gap between behavior and delivery of backup reinforcers, can be used for various items.

Target Behavior in Token Economies

What is the goal? What do participants need to learn?

Reinforcement Schedule

The frequency at which tokens are earned in a token economy.

Data Collection

How success will be measured in the token economy.

Withdrawing the Token Economy

A plan to gradually remove the token system while maintaining effectiveness through social approval and praise.

Scaling Down Tokens

Increasing the number of responses needed to earn tokens gradually.

Duration of Token Economy

Gradually decreasing the time the token economy is in effect.

Backup Items in Untrained Settings

Increasing the variety of activities and privileges that can serve as backup reinforcers.

Increasing Price of Desirable Items

Systematically raising the cost of more desirable items while keeping less desirable items low.

Fading Evidence of Tokens

Gradually making tokens less visible over time.

Immediate Consequence of Token Economies

Participants earn reinforcers immediately for specific behaviors.

Tokens as Generalized Conditioned Reinforcers

Tokens can be exchanged for a variety of backup reinforcers.

Role of Social Approval in Token Economies

Social approval and verbal praise should accompany the withdrawal of tokens.

Behavior and Backup Reinforcer Relationship

The effectiveness of tokens is dependent on the backup reinforcer’s ability to influence future behavior.

Learning through Conditioned Reinforcers

Conditioned reinforcers are typically taught through associations.

Satisfaction of Biological Needs

Primary reinforcers fulfill essential needs such as hunger and thirst.

Association of Tokens with Reinforcers

Tokens gain value through repeated pairings with rewards.

Types of Backup Reinforcers

Can be classified as primary or secondary based on their nature.

Clinical Settings for Token Economies

Token economies are used in schools, clinics, organizations, and hospitals.

Value Establishment of Tokens

The value of tokens is determined by their previous associations.

Systematic Increase of Price for Items

Price adjustments for tokens' exchange should be well-planned.

Gradual Scale in Response Requirements

Responses needed for tokens should increase gradually over time.

Examples of Conditioned Reinforcers

Preferred books, TV shows, favorite snacks, desired clothing.

Nuances of Generalized Reinforcers

Generalized conditioned reinforcers maintain effectiveness regardless of the current situation.

Token Exchange Dynamics

Participants accumulate tokens which can be exchanged for backup items and activities.

Effective Token Economy Requirements

Identifying target behavior, backup reinforcers, token types, and reinforcement schedules are crucial.

Pairing Tokens with Social Approval

Always combine token reductions with social approval to maintain motivation.

Token Dynamics in Behavioral Change

Tokens serve as tools for eliciting desirable behaviors and reinforcing them effectively.

Examples of Exchanges in Token Systems

Treats, extra playtime, privileges can be earned through token exchanges.