Behaviour modification in custody Flashcards
What is behaviour modification?
An application of the behaviourist approach to treatment that is based on operant conditioning and the use of positive or negative reinforcement.
What is token economy?
Based on operant conditioning, token economy reinforces desirable behaviour with a token that can be exchanged for a reward. For example, avoiding conflict and keeping cells tidy.
What is a secondary reinforcer?
Objects that derive their value because of their association with a reward. Tokens are an example of this as they are exchanged for a reward.
What must be ensured before token economy is implemented?
The target behaviours and the rewards associated with them must be made clear and emphasis must be placed on the loss of privileges if there is disobedience.
According to Miltenberger what are the 7 components of Behaviour modification?
Target behaviours are identified. Types of tokens are decided Primary reinforcers are identified Reinforcement schedule is decided Exchange criterion i.e. price Time/place for exchange is decided Penalty or fine for engaging in undesirable behaviours
What research is there into behaviour modification?
Hobbs and Holt introduced token economy to a group of young delinquents and observed a significant difference in positive behaviour compared to a non-token economy group.
Cohen and Filipczak found token economy groups showed more desirable behaviour than control groups. After 2 years, the token economy groups were less likely to have reoffended. However, after 3years, rates of recidivism went back to reflecting national statistics.
What are the strengths of behaviour modification?
It is easy to implement and can be introduced by anyone
Individually tailored programmes are more effective and so to increase effectiveness the rewards can be changed.
What are the issues of behaviour modification?
It depends on consistent implementation
There is little rehabilitative value as outside of prison, the same behaviour would not be rewarded.
Ethical issues are associated with removing privileges
It is a passive form of learning that means offenders can just play along with the system rather than changing behaviour.
