Description of the Strategy

Individuals who engage in problem behavior often need reinforcement at rates that are higher than those that typically occur in the school environment. Token economies provide teachers and other school personnel with efficient ways to reinforce appropriate behavior frequently and immediately without disruption to the classroom or school routine. Similar to the way in which money is earned and exchanged for things that people desire (e.g., homes, food, cars, etc.), token economies allow students to earn tokens for engaging in desired behaviors (e.g., following classroom rules, completing work on time, participating in community outings). These tokens can later be exchanged for something the student enjoys, such as a piece of food or candy, computer time, or extra recess. When ...