In a token system, what does response cost involve?

Response cost in a token system refers to the practice of removing a token as a consequence for undesirable behavior. The idea behind this approach is to create a negative consequence that directly impacts the individual's token reinforcement for positive behaviors. When a token is taken away due to inappropriate or undesirable actions, it serves as a deterrent, encouraging the individual to engage in more appropriate behavior to retain their tokens.

This strategy is grounded in the principles of operant conditioning, where behaviors are modified through reinforcement schedules and punishments. In this scenario, the token acts as a form of currency that can be earned or lost, thus emphasizing the importance of maintaining positive behaviors to keep the earned tokens. This is an effective way to manage and decrease undesirable behaviors within a structured reinforcement system.