Dealing with offending: Behaviour modification in custody Flashcards
Basic idea
are designed with the aim of reinforcing obedient behaviour in offenders whilst punishing disobedience.
This is made possible in prison through token economy system, which involves reinforcing desirable behaviour with a token that can be then exchanged for a reward.
Examples
Desirable behaviour is likely to include: avoiding conflict, following rules, keeping ones cell orderly etc
The reward may include exchanging tokens which are coloured discs (secondary reinforcers) for actual rewards (primary reinforcers) such as a phone call to a loved one.
Features
- the desirable behaviour is identified and broken down into small steps or increments.
- a baseline measure is established or put it another way, what is their current behaviour like before the treatment starts?
- the behaviours to be reinforced are decided upon
- all people who come into contact with offenders must follow the same regime of selective reinforcement.
Evaluation strength: easy to implement
as there is no need for expertise or specialists as there would be for other forms of treatment such as anger management. (cost-effective)
Evaluation strength: Hobbs & Holt (1976)
introduced a token economy programme with groups of young delinquents and found a significant difference in positive behaviour compared to a control group.
Evaluation weakness: little rehabilitative value
as any positive changes in behaviour may be quickly lost when the are released as any law-abiding behaviour is not always reinforced on the outside.
Evaluation weakness: Ethical issues
it has been accused of being dehumanising as they involve withdrawal of ‘privileges’ such as exercise and contact with loved ones which are basic human rights.
Evaluation weakness: treats symptoms but not cause
tokens just reinforce desirable behaviour rather than the underlying thought processes and situations that influence it.
