token economy psychological therapy A03

Question 1

supporting evidence

Answer 1

Dickerson et al conducted a meta analysis of 13 studies investigating the use of token economy in pychic setting. 11 of these studies reported benificial effects and reported that token economy was directly responsible for these effects.

this supports the effectiveness off token economy at helping patients improve their functioning and engagement in society.

Question 2

methodology

Answer 2

meta analysis don’t always use random allocation and some don’t use double bind technique.

this means the the effectiveness of token economy may have been over emphasised.

Question 3

opposing evidence- less useful for patients living in the community

Answer 3

only shown to work in hospital settings. in a psych eat, inpatients receive 24hr care so there is better control for staff to monitror and reward patients appropriately. outpatients liver in community so have access to all rewards.

this means that any beneficial effect of token economy are not likely yo be maintained once the patient is out of hospital.

Question 4

raises ethical concerns

Answer 4

clinicians exercise control over important primary reinforces such as food. all humans have access to human rights as well as privacy, and these rights c ant be violated regardless of the token economy program.

this means that token economy is considered by some to be a violation of patients basic human rights.