Reducing and measuring inappropriate verbalizations in a token classroom.

A procedure was employed that enabled a teacher to bring inappropriate verbalizations under control in a classroom of approximately 25 fifth- and sixth-grade students. Contingent point loss for inappropriate verbalizations was correlated with a low but steady rate of such verbalizations. Point gain contingent upon quiet behavior produced a marked decrease in inappropriate verbalizations. A return to contingent point loss was accompanied by an increasing rate of inappropriate verbalizations. Verbalizations decreased when quiet behavior was reinforced again. A noteworthy feature of the study was the utilization of students from within the class to act as data recorders. A reliability check indicated satisfactory agreement between the recorders.