Token_Economy_Chapter 22.pptx

Token_Economy_Chapter from melitenberger book

1. Token Economy Presented by Aqsa shahid

2. What is a Token Economy? A behavior modification system where tokens are used as conditioned reinforcers. Used in: Classrooms, therapy, psychiatric settings, prisons.

3. In a token economy, target behaviors are identi fied and tokens are delivered contingent on their occurrence. Tokens are later exchanged for backup reinforcers at a predetermined exchange rate.

4. Response Cost Response cost, in which the occurrence of prob lem behaviors results in the loss of tokens, may be implemented as a component of a token economy when one goal is to decrease the occurrence of undesirable behaviors.

5. Core Components 1. Identify Target Behaviors 2. Select Tokens 3. Choose Backup Reinforcers 4. Set Exchange Rates 5. Token Delivery & Rules 6. Training Participants & Staff

6. Cont….. Identify Target Behaviors : Operationally defined, observable, and measurable behaviors. Select Tokens : Durable, easy to deliver and accumulate (e.g., points, chips, stickers). Choose Backup Reinforcers : Must be valued by the individual; can include tangible items, activities, or privileges. Set Exchange Rates : Determines the number of tokens needed for each backup reinforcer .

7. Set Exchange Rate Each backup reinforcer must have a price, or the rate at which tokens are exchanged for them. Smaller items are exchanged for fewer tokens and larger items for more tokens. In addition, the change agents must determine the maxi mum number of tokens that the client can earn in a day and set the exchange rate accordingly.

8. Token Delivery & Rules : Clear rules for earning and losing tokens (if response cost is used). Training Participants & Staff : Ensures consistency in implementation and understanding of procedures. These components form the foundation for a well-designed and effective token economy. Each part must be systematically planned to support behavior change.

9. Example - School Setting Behavior: Completing homework Token: Star stickers Backup Reinforcer: Extra playtime, small toys Exchange Rate: 5 stars = 10 minutes of computer time

10. Example - Therapy Setting Behavior: Expressing emotions in group Token: Plastic coins Backup Reinforcer: Access to favorite activity

11. Advantages • Immediate feedback • Structure & consistency • Easily quantified (greater or fewer) • Promotes generalization

12. Challenges and Considerations • Implementation consistency • Risk of token devaluation • Ethical concerns (fairness) • Fading reinforcement over time

13. Worksheet - Create Your Own Token Economy Fill in the blanks: - Target Behavior: __________ - Token Type: __________ - Backup Reinforcer: __________ - Exchange Rate: __________ - Rules/Delivery Plan: __________

14. Tips for Success • Be consistent • Reinforce immediately • Keep reinforcers motivating • Track progress

15. Summary Token economies are effective reinforcement systems. Require planning, consistency, and ethical care. Useful across a range of populations.

16. References Miltenberger, R. G. (2021). Behavior Modification: Principles and Procedures.