Using progressive ratio schedules to evaluate tokens as generalized conditioned reinforcers
Danielle Russell1, Einar T Ingvarsson1, Jennifer L Haggar1
1University of North Texas and Child Study Center.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
|December 2, 2017
Summary
Tokens may function as generalized conditioned reinforcers for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and developmental delays, showing higher engagement than edibles or leisure items in certain conditions.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Background:
- Operant reinforcer effectiveness varies with schedule and effort.
- Generalized conditioned reinforcers, like tokens, require further research.
- Understanding reinforcer properties is crucial for interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the generalized conditioned properties of token reinforcement.
- To compare token reinforcement with edible and leisure items.
- To assess the impact of presession access to edibles on reinforcer effectiveness.
Main Methods:
- Progressive ratio schedules were used with three children diagnosed with ASD and developmental delays.
- Reinforcer effectiveness was measured by breakpoint (highest ratio achieved).
- Presession access to edibles was manipulated to evaluate its effect on breakpoint values.
Main Results:
- Tokens yielded the highest breakpoints for two of three participants.
- Edible reinforcers initially produced higher response rates.
- Presession access to edibles reduced breakpoint values for edibles but not tokens, with a preference shift towards leisure items.
Conclusions:
- Findings suggest tokens function as generalized conditioned reinforcers for this population.
- Token reinforcement may be a viable alternative to primary reinforcers.
- Results have implications for designing effective behavioral interventions for ASD.
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