A Preliminary Examination of a Vocal Generalized Conditioned Reinforcer

Generalized conditioned reinforcers (GCRs) in the form of tokens are commonly used in behavioral treatment. However, it is possible for non‐tangible consequences to also function as GCRs. For example, a vocal stimulus (e.g., good job) associated with completion of a work task, access to preferred actives, and peer interaction could function as a GCR. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of pairing a vocal stimulus with multiple edible reinforcers on the Frequency math problem completion. The results suggest that a vocal statement paired with an array of four back‐up reinforcer functioned as a GCR for completing math problems for two typically developing children identified as having minor deficits in math skills. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.