What term describes a form of behavior modification using operant conditioning principles where desired behaviors are rewarded with tokens?

Token economy is a behavior modification system that utilizes operant conditioning principles by rewarding desired behaviors with tokens, which can later be exchanged for various rewards or privileges. This system is effective in promoting positive behavior change, especially in settings such as classrooms or therapeutic environments, where immediate reinforcement may not always be possible.

In a token economy, the tokens serve as a tangible reward that learners can accumulate, providing motivation to engage in desired behaviors. The immediate feedback reinforces the connection between the behavior and the reward, thereby increasing the likelihood of the behavior being repeated in the future. This method is particularly useful for managing behaviors in children or individuals with special needs, as it structures reinforcement in a way that is both engaging and rewarding.

The other concepts, while related, do not specifically capture the essence of using tokens as a reward system. Behavioral modification is a broader term that encompasses various strategies, including token economies but does not refer specifically to this method. Reinforcement theory and operant conditioning describe foundational principles that underpin these approaches but do not focus on the token system itself. Thus, the term that best fits the description given in the question is token economy.