token economy

Question 1

what is token economy?

Answer 1

This is a system used for many psychological conditions, and it’s been shown to be effective for SZ (Ayllon & Azrin, 1968)

Question 2

what is token economy based on?

Answer 2

It is based on behaviourist theory/learning theory

Question 3

what happens during token economy?

Answer 3

Patients learn to associate positive behaviours with positive outcomes

Question 4

what does token economy lead to?

Answer 4

This, it is hoped, will lead to behavioural changes

Question 5

what is token economy used for?

Answer 5

management of schizophrenia. It is used to shape and manage behaviour so that patients in long stay hospitals are easier to manage.

Question 6

what are given in token economy?

Answer 6

Rewards (tokens) are given immediately as secondary reinforcers when patients engage in desirable behaviours e.g. getting dressed in the morning, making a bed, taking medication

Question 7

what are primary reinforcers?

Answer 7

Although these tokens have no value in themselves, they can be swapped later for more tangible rewards (primary reinforcers). For example, sweets, magazines, privileges such as a walk outside the hospital. Therefore, this encourages the desirable behaviour to be repeated because they have become associated with rewards and privileges.