A system of individual reinforcement in which tokens (chips, check marks, paper money, etc.) are given after the occurrence of a target behavior. The tokens are used later to obtain access to backup reinforcers (food, toys, privileges, etc.). To be successful, a person must be reinforced for behavior that is already occurring as well as successive approximations of behavior we wish to establish. Token systems may not deprive participants of constitutionally guaranteed rights. Individual program plans rather than token systems must be used for management of problem behaviors. This is a level I procedure.
An arrangement for operant behavior modification, usually in institutional settings. Certain responses (e.g., cleaning one's room, talking to others) are reinforced with tokens that can be exchanged for desirable items.
an operant conditioning procedure that uses tokens as positive reinforcers in programs designed to promote desirable behaviors, with the tokens later used to purchase desired items or privileges. (256, 526)
A system of reinforcing various behaviors through the delivery of tokens. These tokens can be in the form of stars, points, candy, or chips.
is a term used by behavioural therapists to describe a reinforcement strategy.
A behaviour modification technique well used in psychiatric hospitals, prisons, schools etc. A token economy involves the use of a reward in such places, which is exchanged by the recipient for goods, services etc. The reward or token is only given for desired behaviours. Excellent research into the token economy and the treatment of schizophrenia has been done by the likes of Ayllon and Azrin (1968), and Paul and Lentz (1977).
a strategy in which tokens are used as representation of positive reinforcers to structure a learning and/or living environment to promote the development of appropriate behaviors and important skills.
A system involving the application of the principles and procedures of operant conditioning to the management of a social setting such as a ward, classroom, or halfway house. Tokens are given contingent on completion of specified activities and are exchangeable for goods or privileges desired by the patient.
A behaviour therapy procedure, based on operant conditioning principles, in which institutionalized patients are given scrip rewards, such as poker chips, for socially constructive behaviour. The tokens can be exchanged for desirable items and activities such as cigarettes and extra time away from the ward.
a form of behavior therapy that has been used in some mental institutions; patients are rewarded with tokens for appropriate behavior and the tokens may be cashed in for valued rewards
a behavioral modification technique that was first used in mental institutions to reinforce and establish desirable behaviors in their patients
a behavioural therapy technique in which the desired change is achieved by means of
a form of behavior modification designed to increase desirable behavior and decrease undesirable behavior with the use of tokens
a form of behavior modification in which an individual is rewarded with "tokens" for positive and appropriate behavior
an example, where tokens may be earned for performance and exchanges for primary reinforcers
a psychological tool that is used to encourage desirable behaviours in children
a system in which an individual earns tokens for targeted behaviors
A behavioral therapeutic technique based on the principles of operant conditioning in which appropriate behavior is rewarded with tokens, which are later exchanged for desired objects and events.
A token economy is a system of behavior modification based on the principles of operant conditioning. Specifically, the original proposal for such a system emphasized reinforcing positive behavior by awarding "tokens" for meeting positive behavioral goals. The system, first implemented in a year-long study conducted by Teodoro Ayllon in Florida, was primarily geared towards changing adolescent behavior.