ABSTRACT
The use of tangible or concrete reinforcersr such as candy or prizes, is often a crucial aspect of behavior modification programs, and the effectiveness of such reinforcers in changing the behaviors of diverse populations has been well documented (Ayllon & Azrin, 1968; Hopkins, 1968; O’Leary & Drabman, 1971; Risley & Hart, 1968). It is noteworthy, however, that the prospect of utilizing tangible reinforcers is frequently met with highly divergent reactions. Parents, teachers, and ward personnel often raise objections to concrete reinforcers which are sufficiently strong to prohibit or seriously jeopardize their use. On the other hand, novice behavior modifiers too often avidly seek the power of concrete reinforcers without considering the possible problems associated with tangible reinforcement and without searching for more subtle yet equally important factors which may control the behavior of the client. In fact, due to an apparent but mistaken simplicity, token programs, which utilize tangible reinforcers, are probably one of the most misused therapeutic procedures developed within the behavioral framework.
