Question

A therapist working with children with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) gives them a star sticker each time they complete a task without distraction. After collecting five stars, they can exchange it with a small toy. What psychological technique is being used here?

• A. Classical conditioning
• B. Token economy
• C. Systematic desensitization
• D. Free association

Hint:

Identify Token Economy by looking for a two-step reward system: first a symbolic reward (star/point), then an exchange for a physical reward.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The question describes a method where children with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) receive a star sticker each time they complete a task without distraction. Once they collect five stars, they can exchange them for a toy. This technique is an effective behavioral intervention used in psychological and educational settings.

This method is known as a Token Economy. Let's break down why this is the correct answer and why the other options do not apply:

1. Classical Conditioning: This technique involves associating an involuntary response with a stimulus to create a new conditioned response. For example, Pavlov’s dogs salivating at the sound of a bell. It doesn't involve rewards or exchange systems like the tokens described in the scenario.
2. Token Economy: In this system, individuals earn tokens for exhibiting desired behaviors. These tokens can later be exchanged for a reward, such as a toy. It's an application of operant conditioning where the tokens serve as secondary reinforcers. This perfectly aligns with the scenario described, where children receive stickers (tokens) for task completion and can exchange them for toys.
3. Systematic Desensitization: This is a technique used to reduce anxiety responses and involves gradual exposure to the feared object or context without any form of a reward system like tokens. Hence, it does not apply here.
4. Free Association: This is a technique used primarily in psychoanalysis, where a person speaks freely to uncover unconscious thoughts and feelings. It has no connection to a token reward system.

Thus, the effective psychological technique being used in the scenario is a Token Economy.