- Tokens become conditioned reinforcers through pairing with backup reinforcers.
- Start small: few tokens, fast exchange.
- Let the learner choose the backup reinforcer.
- Thin gradually and keep the same board at home.
How do token economies work?
A token is paired with backup reinforcers until the token itself becomes a conditioned reinforcer. Research on token reinforcement shows its effects depend on the token schedule, the exchange schedule and the backup reinforcers available.1 Token economies are part of the RBT 2026 training curriculum.2
How do I set one up?
- Choose the target behavior and define it clearly.
- Identify backup reinforcers with a preference assessment.3
- Show the goal on the board: "Working for: tablet time."
- Start with 1 to 3 tokens, delivered right after the behavior with praise.
- Exchange immediately when the board is full.
- Thin gradually: more tokens, or longer between tokens, as responding stays strong.
| Mistake | Try instead |
|---|---|
| Too many tokens at the start | Begin with 1 to 3 and build up |
| Delayed token delivery | Give the token right after the behavior |
| Same backup reinforcer forever | Let the learner choose each time |
| Thinning too fast | Increase only when data show stable responding |
What can I do this week?
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Read next: How do I run a preference assessment?
