Token economies are used with hospitalised Sz patients.
Tokens (e.g. coloured discs) are given whenever the patient performs desirable behaviours, such as getting dressed on time, or taking part in a group activity.
The tokens can be exchanged for a reward, such as sweets or time outside – positive reinforcement.
How do Token Economies Work?
The tokens are notrewarding at first.
The items the tokens are swapped for are referred to as primary reinforcers – they are rewarding.
The tokens become secondary reinforcers – they only have value once they are associated with the primary reinforcers (through classical conditioning).
Strength of Token Economies - Supporting Research:
Dickerson
Meta-analysis: 13 studies reviewed, 11 found that token economies had beneficial effects.
Limitation of Token Economies - Ethical Issues:
Professionals have power to control behaviour, imposing their norms onto others
Restricting pleasures for seriously ill people
Limitation of Token Economies - Not useful for majority of population
Using token economies is only useful for hospitalised patients which make up a very small proportion of people with Sz
