A Comparison Between Survey and Verbal Choice Methods of Identifying Potential Reinforcers Among Employees

Abstract

Two methods of assessing preference for stimuli (i.e., potential reinforcers) were compared for adult administrative assistant employees. During Phase 1, a survey method and a verbal choice method of assessing preference for 6 stimuli were administered. During Phase 2, a coupon system was used to determine which categories of stimuli actually functioned as reinforcers for each of the four participants. Comparisons between the preference assessment methods were then conducted based on the results of the reinforcer assessment. Results showed that the survey method was more accurate than the choice method.

Key Words:

• Reinforcer assessment
• reinforcer identification
• stimulus preference assessment
• survey
• verbal choice