Question

In an upscale food delivery chain, the delivery persons are given badges for timely food delivery at the end of each month. Bonus is given annually in exchange for six such badges. The company has therefore been able to retain most of its employees and get better returns year after year. Which behavioural technique is being used to reinforce delivery personnel?

• A. Negative reinforcement
• B. Differential reinforcement
• C. Modelling
• D. Token economy

Hint:

Whenever you see a system involving points, stars, badges, or any other symbolic item that is earned and then "cashed in" for a real reward, think "token economy."

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question describes a system of behavior modification based on principles of operant conditioning. We need to identify the specific technique being used.

Negative reinforcement: Increasing a behavior by removing an aversive stimulus.
Differential reinforcement: Reinforcing only the appropriate response and applying extinction to all other responses.
Modelling: Learning by observing the behavior of others.
Token economy: A system where individuals earn "tokens" (neutral items like badges, points, or poker chips) for exhibiting desired behaviors. These tokens can later be exchanged for meaningful rewards or privileges (called backup reinforcers), such as a bonus.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The scenario perfectly describes a token economy.

The desired behavior is "timely food delivery."
The "tokens" are the "badges" given each month. These badges have no intrinsic value on their own.
The "backup reinforcer" is the "annual bonus" for which the badges can be exchanged.
This system of earning tokens for good behavior and later exchanging them for a reward is the definition of a token economy.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The behavioural technique being used is a Token economy.