What is a token economy and how could it be used in an institutional setting, such as a mental hospital?

What will be an ideal response?

ANSWER: Answer will include that a token economy is a therapeutic program in which desirable behaviors are reinforced with tokens that can be exchanged for goods, services, activities, and privileges. In a mental institution, tokens could be given to patients who get out of bed, dress themselves, take required medication, arrive for meals on time, and so on. Constructive activities, such as gardening, cooking, or cleaning, may also earn tokens. Patients must exchange tokens for meals and private rooms, movies, passes, off-ward activities, and other privileges. They are charged tokens for staying in bed, disrobing in public, talking to themselves, fighting, crying, and similar target behaviors. Token economies can radically change a patient's overall adjustment and morale. Patients are given an incentive to change, and they are held responsible for their actions.