How to Make a Token System Fail

Abstract

A token system was instituted in an adjustment class of six third and fourth graders. The aim of the study was to examine aspects of token systems critical in making them effective. The results indicated a significant degree of improvement in behavior attributable to the token program, but when compared to the highly effective program reported by O'Leary and Becker (1961), it is apparent that an effective program requires more than tokens and back up reinforcers.