The Home Token Economy, Third edition.
Jack R. Alvord and Carl D. Cheney. (1994, Reprinted 1998). Cambridge, MA: Cambridge Center for Behavioral Studies. ISBN 1-881317-01-3 (paper) 53 p.
“A token economy is a program where tokens (which can represent many things) are given to a person immediately following a specific act or behavior. Tokens may take the form of points on a chart, gold stars, poker chips, play money, or even real money. Money, of course, by itself, is not good for much, it is what it can be exchanged for that gives money, or any other token, its value. This it true in all economic systems. Tokens that can be quickly and easily delivered must be exchangeable (we say “backed up”) for other more directly usable or valuable items.”
“The HTE arranges consequences (often in the form of the delivery or removal or tokens) to follow behaviors – either appropriate behaviors (those that you want) or undesirable behaviors (those that you wish were absent). Tokens should be of a type that are easily and quickly delivered. Tokens may be exchanged for things, such as privileges or other desirable activities that are often impossible to deliver at the time when they are earned (for example, tokens instead of TV watching, special meals, activities). For most of us, money is received contingent upon work or completion of some job. We then exchange our money for food, housing, and all the things we like to do or to have. A home token economy is such a system in miniature, where family members earn tokens for providing services or behaving appropriately, and later exchange the tokens for more desirable things and activities.”
“The HTE utilizes the Principle of Reinforcement in its design and application. This principle states that a behavior which is followed by a favored (valued) object or event is more likely to occur in the future. A reinforcer is the stimulus or event that follows a behavior and by doing so increases the likelihood of that behavior occurring again. The presentation of tokens is often reinforcing when the tokens are eventually exchangeable for something the person wants. The presentation of tokens strengthens or makes more likely the behaviors that produced them.” (p. 1-2)
“Many children, and some parents, initially resist accepting the fact that we all work, live, and behave in some sort of economic system. However, success results in believers. A change in behavior is usually observed within a few days following the construction, implementation, and enforcement of the HTE.” (p. 3)
“Earning tokens should be very easy at first. Thus, desirable behaviors and complying are quickly and easily established and parents and children using the HTE can quickly enjoy success. The Home Token Economy is a positive system that used only limited, but sometimes unavoidable, negative components.” (p. 3)
“The Home Token Economy is a motivational system for the entire family. By using the HTE, you as a parent can manage, direct, and motivate your child’s behavior so that all participants will be happier. By involving yourself with your child in programming home activities, you are fulfilling the important role of teacher for your child.” (p. 4)
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