behaviour modification in custody EVALUATION

Question 1

easy to implement

Answer 1

• Can be implemented by anyone, unlike anger management treatment which requires specialist professionals
• easy to follow once established
• They are cost-effective and easy to follow
• However, it does rely on a consistent approach from prison staff

Question 2

ethical issues

Answer 2

• Viewed as manipulative and dehumanising
• Critics have suggested that a programme which may withdraw ‘rewards’ such as exercise or phone calls, is ethically questionable

Question 3

It has little rehabilitative value

Answer 3

• It may be an effective solution whilst in prison but it is an unrealistic long-term solution upon release
• This may be because law-abiding behaviours are not rewarded outside prison and so positive changes in behaviour in prison may be quickly lost outside

Question 4

may need to be more tailored to an individual

Answer 4

• Clinton Field et al (2004) suggested that the programme should be designed so that the type and frequency of the rewards, suit the individual in order for it to be more effective
• However, the programme was generally effective

Question 5

It encourages a passive form of learning

Answer 5

• Token economies may not really change behaviour as prisoners may simply mimic or fake desirable behaviours in order to receive tokens
• token economy dont require the offender to understand the cause of their offending
• This may explain why many prisoners revert back to criminal behaviours once released

Question 6

The success of token economy depends on consistent approach from prison staff

Answer 6

• Bassett 1977 found that benefits were lost if staff applied techniques inconsistently
• Could be a result of inappropriate staff training or high staff turnover