Token Economy
Also called: token system, point system
Definition
A system in which target behaviors earn tokens — points, stars, chips — that can later be exchanged for backup reinforcers. The tokens become generalized conditioned reinforcers through the exchange. A working system specifies the behaviors, the token value, the backups and the exchange schedule, and is thinned over time.
In plain language
Earning points or tokens for good behavior and trading them in later for things the person wants. It works because the tokens can be traded for many things.
Example
A learner earns a star for each completed task and trades five stars for ten minutes on the tablet.
Not token economy
Handing out stars that can never be traded for anything. Without backup reinforcers, the stars have no reason to work.
See also
Written from
- kazdin-1977-token
Written from Kazdin (1977). No textbook glossary consulted.
This entry has not yet been through clinical review. Treat it as a draft.