Behaviour modification in custody

Question 1

Behaviour modification

Answer 1

• An application of the behaviourist approach to treatment.
• It is based on the principles of operant conditioning.
• the general aim is to replace undesirable behaviours with more desirable ones through the use of positive or negative reinforcement

Question 2

Behaviourist principles

Answer 2

All behaviour learned, undesirable behaviour can be unlearned

Question 3

Token economy

Answer 3

Operant conditioning using tokens (SR) associated with reward

Question 4

What is token economy based on

Answer 4

Operant conditioning

Question 5

What part of the token economy system act as a primary reinforcers

Answer 5

Rewards

Question 6

What part of the token economy system act as a secondary reinforcers

Answer 6

Token

Question 7

How to design the token economy system

Answer 7

• Operationalise target behaviour- objective and measurable
• Scoring hierarchy more rewards than punishments
• Train staff- standardise, record prisoners’ progress

Question 8

Behaviour modification evaluation points- Research support

Answer 8

STRENGTH

More positive behaviours in young offenders (Hobbs and Holt), immediate, frequent and positive (Field)

Question 9

Behaviour modification evaluation points- Research support counterpoint

Answer 9

LIMITATION

Benefits lost if techniques inconsistent due to e.g. poor training (Bassett and Blanchard)

Question 10

Behaviour modification evaluation points- Easy to implement

Answer 10

STRENGTH

No specialist professionals, can be run by any prison staff once trained
Cost effective

Question 11

Behaviour modification evaluation points- Little rehab value

Answer 11

LIMITATION

• Other treatments (Anger M)
• More likely to lead to permeant behavioural change
• Blackburn