Behaviour modification in Custody Flashcards
Why are behaviour modification programmes designed?
They are designed with the aim of reinforcing obedient behaviour in offenders, whilst punishing disobedience.
What is a token economy based on and how should they be implemented?
A token economy is based on operant conditioning, the behaviours and rewards should be made clear to the prisoners beforehand. And emphasised that non-compliance or disobedience may result in tokens being withheld or removed
How should they design and use a token economy?
Operationalise target behaviours: In a token economy a target behaviour operationalised by breaking down into component parts, objective and measurable
Scoring system: Behaviours may be hierarchical with some having greater reward. Reinforcements should outnumber punishments 4:1.
Train staff: To standardise procedures and record awarding of tokens to see progress of individuals
What is brief AO3 for behaviour modification in custody?
- Evidence to support it (Hobbs and Holt), BUT success is dependent on consistent approach by staff
- Easy to implement
- Little rehabilitative value: may not effect LT behaviour
What are strengths of behaviour modification in custody?
Hobbs and Holt introduced token economy programme in young offenders across three units. Significant difference in positive behaviour compared to non token economy group. When didn’t work with some individuals they were placed on programme with immediate and frequent rewards, results more positive. BUT, Bassett and Blanchard found any benefits were lost if staff applied techniques inconsistently. Due to lack of staff training, must ensure full and consistent staff participation if to work.
Relatively straightforward to set up in custody, easy to administer. No need for specialist professionals like with anger management, cost-effective. Established in most prisoners and accessed by most prisoners
What are weaknesses of behaviour modification in custody?
It may not affect long-term behaviour. Blackburn says behaviour modification has little rehabilitation value. Positive changes may be lost upon the offenders release cognitive-based treatments like anger management may have more permanent behavioural change. Can easily play along with no real change of character. Once economy is discontinued an offender may regress back to former behaviour.
