ABCTE Professional Teaching Knowledge Practice Exam

What is a primary goal of a token economy in educational settings?

1. To punish negative behavior

2. To provide direct instruction

3. To reinforce positive behavior

4. To reduce the need for classroom management

The correct answer is: To reinforce positive behavior

A token economy is a systematic method used in educational settings to reinforce positive behavior through a reward system. The primary goal of implementing such a system is to encourage desirable behaviors by providing tokens or points that students can earn for exhibiting specific positive behaviors. These tokens can later be exchanged for privileges, treats, or other rewards. This method leverages the principles of behavior modification, where reinforcement of positive behaviors increases the likelihood that those behaviors will be repeated. In contrast, while options such as punishing negative behavior might occur as a consequence of certain management strategies, it is not the main focus of a token economy. Providing direct instruction typically involves teaching content rather than behavior reinforcement. Additionally, while a token economy may influence classroom management positively, its primary aim is not the reduction of such needs but rather to actively promote and strengthen students' positive behaviors. Thus, reinforcing positive behavior is a central tenet of effective classroom practices using token economies.