Behavioural modification - AO1

Question 1

What is behavioural modification?

Answer 1

An application of the behaviourist approach to managing behaviour. In the context of forensic psychology techniques such as token economies are applied in prisons to correct offender behaviour

Question 2

What are behaviourist principles?

Answer 2

If all behaviour is learnt, then it should be possible to unlearn through conditioning as well

• Token economies are designed to reinforce obedient behaviour while punishing disobedience
• The hope is that obedient behaviour will be extinguished

Question 3

What happens in a token economy?

Answer 3

Desirable behaviour is reinforced with an immediate token that is later exchanged for some kind of removal

• Avoiding conflict - phone calls

Other things:

• Desired target behaviour must be operationalised
• Everyone should know how many tokens each target behaviour is worth
• System must be clearly explained to prisoners
• Staff must be fully trained and keep clear records

Question 4

What are primary reinforcers?

Answer 4

Small plastic tokens to reinforce desirable behaviours