In an upscale food delivery chain, the delivery persons are given badges for timely food delivery at the end of each month. Bonus is given annually in exchange for six such badges. The company has therefore been able to retain most of its employees and get better returns year after year. Which behavioural technique is being used to reinforce delivery personnel?

Token economy

The correct answer is Option (4) → Token economy

A token economy is a reinforcement system where individuals earn tokens (such as points, badges, or chips) for displaying desired behaviors. These tokens can later be exchanged for a larger reward or privilege.

In this case:

• Badges act as the tokens, awarded for timely food delivery each month.

• Annual bonus is the backup reinforcer, given in exchange for a set number of tokens (six badges).

• This system motivates employees to consistently perform well, helping the company retain staff and improve returns.

The other options don’t fit:

• Negative reinforcement → Removing something unpleasant to encourage a behavior.

• Differential reinforcement → Reinforcing a desired behavior while ignoring undesired ones.

• Modelling → Learning behavior by observing others.