behaviour modification

Question 1

What is behaviour modification?

Answer 1

is based on principle of operant conditioning and uses token economy system to reinforce desirable behaviour

Question 2

token

Answer 2

A token is given when a prisoner performs a desirable behaviour, such as keeping their
cell clean, which can later be exchanged for a reward of some kind, for example, time in the gym.

The token is a secondary reinforcer as they are valued by the prisoner due to their association with the reward. Tokens can also be withheld or removed as a form of punishment for disobedience.

Question 3

what are steps to changing behaviour?

Answer 3

1. Desirable behavior identified
2. Broken down in steps (increments)
3. Baseline measure established
4. All must follow the regime -selective reinforcement
5. Could be one particular prisoner
6. Overseen by prison officials

Question 4

what is evaluation?

Answer 4

outside value
- Cohen and filipezak (1977) found that after 2 years token economy group were less likely to reoffend than control group. however after 3 years , rates of recidivism went back reflecting the national statics probably because they were no longer receiving rewards for their desirable behaviours in the outside world.

indivual differences
- field 2004 found that some young offenders responded more positively when rewards were immediate and more frequent. but tailoring programmes on indivual basis would be difficult to implement due to staffing issues and funding.

ethical issues
- offenders were not always given the option as to whether they want to take part in token economy. withdrawal of rewards could also be seen ethically questionable.