
What is a Token Economy?
Token economies are a popular reinforcement system used in applied behavior analysis (ABA) to increase behaviors we want to see more often. Token economies are also used frequently in classrooms which makes this type of system great for generalization across different settings. Although used often, a token economy is sometimes misunderstood, and often implemented in correctly. This blog will show you step-by-step how to properly set up a token economy for success.
How to Implement a Token Economy
A token economy is easy to setup and easy to maintain. Here are the steps to creating a strong token economy.
- Identify Target Behaviors: as with any behavior or skill acquisition goal, you should always start by identifying what behavior or skill you want to change. Your goals, and the plan you develop to reach those goals, should reflect whatever target you chose.
- Select Tokens: Tokens can be anything from laminated picture cards to tally marks to fake money. You want to make sure the tokens are durable, that they are not prone to bootleg reinforcement, and that they can be easily distributed when needed and where needed. Tokens are considered a generalized conditioned reinforcer so you want something that can be used in a variety of situations and environments.
- Identify Backup Reinforcers: Tokens are only as good as what they can be exchanged for, and those items are called backup reinforcers. You should identify your backup reinforcers using preference and reinforcer assessments and you should be constantly evaluating your backup reinforcers. You are going to need to pair your tokens with the backup reinforcers to give the tokens value.
- Establish and Exchange Ratio: Next, you want to determine how much a backup reinforcer will “cost.” In other words, how many tokens are needed in order to earn a backup reinforcer through an exchange.
- Pick a Reinforcement Schedule: Your reinforcement schedule will determine when and how often a token is given to your learner. Reinforcement schedules should be individualized and based on the needs of the learner.
- Implement and Monitor the System: As with any system or intervention, you need to trial what you’ve created. On-going monitoring of the reinforcement schedule, the tokens, and the backup reinforcers is crucial to make sure your token system remains effective.
Individualize Your System
Your token economy should meet the needs of your learner which means you should design your tokens around what the individual is going to want to work for each day. Similarly, you want your backup reinforcers to not just be a standard set of items, but rather items that were identified through preference and reinforcer assessments. When selecting your reinforcement schedule, keep in mind what your learner needs and how you can keep your learner motivated.
Response Cost in Token Economies
Response cost is a common procedure used in token economies. A response cost is a punishment procedure where an earned reinforcer is taken away contingent on behavior. In this case, a token would be removed if a behavior occurred that was undesirable. As with all punishment procedures, make sure you are staying ethical when using punishment.
Final Thoughts
Token economies are one of the most common and widely used behavior change procedures. They are highly effective and generalizable. Just make sure you are following the right steps so that your system is as strong as possible. If you are preparing for the RBT exam, check out https://btexamreview.com. For the bcba exam, head to https://behavioranalyststudy.com