Final answer:
To design a token economy, one must identify target behaviors, determine types of tokens, establish a reward menu, set exchange rates, plan the distribution system, and create a monitoring system. These steps structure a system that effectively manages and modifies behavior.
Step-by-step explanation:
Designing and preparing a token economy involves several key steps. These steps are critical in establishing a systematic method for behavior modification. Here are six steps that should be taken:
- Identify target behaviors to be reinforced or diminished. These behaviors should be observable, measurable, and specific.
- Determine the types of tokens or points that will be used as secondary reinforcers. These should be easy to handle and count.
- Establish a menu of rewards that tokens can be exchanged for. This reward system should be diverse to accommodate different individual preferences.
- Set clear exchange rates for how tokens translate into rewards. Rates should be attainable to maintain motivation.
- Develop a plan for how tokens will be distributed and subtracted. Consistency in application is key to the credibility of the token economy.
- Create a monitoring system to track progress and make necessary adjustments to the token economy.
Token economies are effective tools for reinforcing positive behavior and diminishing negative behavior. They have been successfully implemented in various environments, such as schools and mental health facilities, to improve social behaviors and academic performance.