Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 4, 2026
13:04
Measuring the Subjective Value of Risky and Ambiguous Options using Experimental Economics and Functional MRI Methods
Published on: September 19, 2012
Assessing the value of choice in a token system
Sandeep K Sran1, John C Borrero
1University of the Pacific.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
|March 2, 2011
Summary
Children
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Psychology
- Child Development
- Applied Behavior Analysis
Background:
- Understanding reinforcement schedules is crucial in behavioral psychology.
- Token economies are widely used in educational and therapeutic settings.
- The impact of choice on reinforcement efficacy requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess children's responding under different token-exchange conditions.
- To investigate the effect of single versus varied item reinforcement on behavior.
- To examine preference for choice in edible reinforcement among children.
Main Methods:
- Four children's behavior was observed under three conditions: no contingencies, single-item tokens, and varied-item tokens.
- Token exchange for preferred edible items was systematically varied.
- A concurrent-chains schedule was used to assess participant preferences for choice.
Main Results:
- Responding varied significantly across the different reinforcement conditions.
- Children's preference for choosing between single or varied edible items differed.
- Findings suggest that the availability of choice influences the value of reinforcement.
Conclusions:
- The type of reinforcement schedule and the availability of choice significantly impact children's behavior.
- Individual preferences for choice in reinforcement are a key factor in treatment design.
- Applied Behavior Analysis can be enhanced by considering choice-making opportunities in token economies.
Related Concept Videos
01:09Decision Making: P-value Method
The process of hypothesis testing based on the P-value method includes calculating the P- value using the sample data and interpreting it.
First, a specific claim about the population parameter is proposed. The claim is based on the research question and is stated in a simple form. Further, an opposing statement to the claim is also stated. These statements can act as null and alternative hypotheses: a null hypothesis would be a neutral statement while the alternative hypothesis can have a...
First, a specific claim about the population parameter is proposed. The claim is based on the research question and is stated in a simple form. Further, an opposing statement to the claim is also stated. These statements can act as null and alternative hypotheses: a null hypothesis would be a neutral statement while the alternative hypothesis can have a...
01:14Decision Making: Traditional Method
The process of hypothesis testing based on the traditional method includes calculating the critical value, testing the value of the test statistic using the sample data, and interpreting these values.
First, a specific claim about the population parameter is decided based on the research question and is stated in a simple form. Further, an opposing statement to this claim is also stated. These statements can act as null and alternative hypotheses, out of which a null hypothesis would be a...
First, a specific claim about the population parameter is decided based on the research question and is stated in a simple form. Further, an opposing statement to this claim is also stated. These statements can act as null and alternative hypotheses, out of which a null hypothesis would be a...
01:23Primary and Secondary Reinforcers
In psychology, reinforcement is a key concept in behavior modification. B.F. Skinner demonstrated this with his experiments involving rats in what is known as a Skinner box. The rats learned to press a lever to receive food, a primary reinforcer that fulfilled their innate need for nourishment.
Effective reinforcers for humans vary depending on the individual and the context. Primary reinforcers, such as food, water, sleep, shelter, and pleasure, have inherent value and satisfy basic biological...
Effective reinforcers for humans vary depending on the individual and the context. Primary reinforcers, such as food, water, sleep, shelter, and pleasure, have inherent value and satisfy basic biological...
01:24Operant Conditioning Intervention
Operant conditioning serves as a foundational principle in therapeutic interventions aimed at modifying maladaptive behaviors. Central to this approach is the notion that behaviors, both adaptive and maladaptive, are learned through reinforcement. By analyzing the environmental factors that reinforce problematic behaviors, clinicians can design interventions to weaken these reinforcements and replace maladaptive behaviors with healthier alternatives.
In operant conditioning, behaviors that are...
In operant conditioning, behaviors that are...
01:26Equity Theory
Equity theory explains how our sense of fairness influences the dynamics of close relationships. Rooted in social psychology, the theory posits that individuals evaluate fairness by comparing the ratio of their contributions to the rewards they receive. Relationship satisfaction is highest when these ratios are perceived as balanced between partners, promoting mutual reciprocity and a sense of justice.Equity vs. Equality in RelationshipsEquity is distinct from equality. Fairness does not...
01:26Social Exchange Theory
As formulated by John Thibaut and Harold Kelley, Social Exchange Theory explains human relationships as economic-like exchanges that maximize rewards and minimize costs. This theory suggests that individuals engage in relationships to gain benefits and reduce burdens, similar to economic transactions. It has been widely applied to various types of relationships, including romantic, professional, and social interactions.Rewards and Costs in RelationshipsRelationship rewards include emotional...