The effect of token reinforcement on McCarthy Scale performance for white preschoolers of low and high social position

ISSN:
1573-3513
Keywords:
token reinforcement ; IQ ; motivation ; social position ; preschoolers
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Education
Psychology
Notes:
Abstract In Study 1, the effect of making tokens contingent on correct performance of low social position preschoolers on the McCarthy Scales of Children's Abilitieswas examined. Preschoolers in a token reinforcement group scored significantly higher (mean=8 IQ points) than subjects in a control group. In Study 2, the effect of tokens on McCarthyresults was examined as a function of social position in a 2×2 design. The high social position control group scored significantly above the low social position control. The low social position token reinforcement group, however, performed as well as both the high social position control and token reinforcement groups. Use of systematic reinforcement contingencies to reduce test error is discussed.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL: