Tangible reinforcers: Conceptual overview and considerations for practice
Document Type
Book Chapter
Publication Date
2023
Department/School
Psychology
Publication Title
Handbook of Applied Behavior Analysis
Abstract
Tangible reinforcers are the most common stimuli used by behavior analysts as consequences in skill acquisition and behavior reduction programming for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Tangible items (e.g., edibles, tokens, toys, etc.) may function as unconditioned, conditioned, or generalized conditioned reinforcers and can be applied in various contexts across age and population. Following a conceptual overview of tangible reinforcers, we provide considerations and recommendations for effectively incorporating tangible reinforcers into practice. We conclude by reviewing important ethical considerations behavior analysts must also examine when working with tangible reinforcers.
Recommended Citation
Stephens, A. M., Pachis, J. A., Rinna, K. M., Sunde, E. A., & Briggs, A. M. (2023). Tangible reinforcers: Conceptual overview and considerations for practice. In J. L. Matson (Ed.), Handbook of applied behavior analysis: Integrating research into practice (pp. 61–77). Springer International. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-19964-6_4
Comments
A. M. Briggs is a faculty member in EMU's Department of Psychology.
*A. M. Stephens, J. A. Pachis, K. M. Rinna, and E. A Sunde are doctoral students in EMU's Department of Psychology.