management of schizophrenia

Question 1

what is token economy

Answer 1

based on operant conditioning

an example of behaviour modification

useful for patients who have become institutionalised and have developed bad habits

helps improve their quality of life whilst preparing them for life outside of the hospital

Question 2

token economy steps

Answer 2

desirable behaviours are identified for a patient and each time they carry out this behaviour a token is given as a reward (secondary reinforcers)

this token can later be exchanged for a more tangible reward
e.g. sweets or an activity (primary reinforcers)

Question 3

evaluation of token economy

Answer 3

not a cure
ethical issues
evidence

Question 4

not a cure (TOKEN ECONOMY EVALUATION)

Answer 4

does not address the symptoms for schizophrenia and so can not be used as a treatment

once patients leave the hospital it is difficult to continue to use

Question 5

ethical issues (TOKEN ECONOMY EVALUATION)

Answer 5

those with severe symptoms or unresponsive negative symptoms will not attain as many rewards

this can lead to accusations of discrimination

enabled clinicians to effectively have power over their patients lives

Question 6

evidence (TOKEN ECONOMY EVALUATION)

Answer 6

Glowacki et al (2016)
- in all 7 studies examined there was a reduction in negative symptoms
- there was a decline in undesirable behaviours