Token Economy

• What is token economy?

  Behaviour modification aspect.

  Token given for desired action which later is exchanged for a treat.
• What is an example of token economy?

  Prisoners who follow rules may earn privileges. Prisoner might be able to have more visits from family/friends or spend more money each week.
• Strengths of Token Economy

  Strength - Can make prisoners more manageable while they are in prison.

  Strength - Serious offenders buddies with adult volunteer who provides reinforcement for socially acceptable behaviour: had a positive impact.
• Limitations of Token Economy

  Limitation - Impact is short term. Positive impact on behaviour stops working when people are released from prisons.

  Limitation - Don't work if prisoners get greater rewards/punishments from fellow inmates for not adhering to desired behaviours being promoted by prison staff.