Management of Schizophrenia Flashcards
(18 cards)
What are token economies?
Reward systems used to manage the behaviour of people with schizophrenia
Who conducted the classic demonstration of a token economy?
Teodoro Ayllon and Nathan Azrin (1968)
What was given to participants for completing tasks in a token economy?
Plastic tokens embossed with the words ‘one gift’
What could the tokens be exchanged for?
Ward privileges, such as watching a film
In which decades were token economies extensively used?
1960s and 70s
Why has the use of token economies declined in the UK?
Growth of community-based care and closure of psychiatric hospitals, along with ethical issues
What are the three categories of institutional behavior tackled by token economies?
- Personal care
- Condition-related behaviours (e.g. apathy)
- Social behaviour
What is one major benefit of modifying behaviours with token economies?
Improves the person’s quality of life within the hospital setting
What does ‘normalising’ behaviour help with?
Easier adaptation back into life in the community
What is the function of tokens in a token economy?
Given immediately for desirable behaviour and later exchanged for tangible rewards
Why are immediate rewards important in a token economy?
Delayed rewards are less effective
What might rewards in a hospital setting include?
- Sweets
- Magazines
- Access to activities like a film or a walk outside
- Appointments with a social worker
What type of therapy do token economies represent?
Behaviour modification based on operant conditioning
What are tokens classified as in the context of reinforcement?
Secondary reinforcers
What are primary reinforcers?
Meaningful rewards such as sweets or a walk outside
What are generalized reinforcers?
Secondary reinforcers that can be exchanged for a range of different primary reinforcers
How do tokens become secondary reinforcers?
They are paired with primary reinforcers
Fill in the blank: Tokens are administered as soon as possible after a _______.
target behaviour
