Behaviour Modification

Question 1

What is the first AO1 point you must know for behaviour modification

Answer 1

Behaviour modification in custody is based on the principles of operant conditioning. The general aim is to replace undesirable behaviours with more desirable ones

Question 2

What is the second AO1 point you must know for behaviour modification

Answer 2

Desirable inmate behaviours (e.g. avoiding conflict, being quiet in a cell, following rules etc) are rewarded, and therefore reinforced, with token. This is positive reinforcement.

Question 3

What is the third AO1 point you must know for behaviour modification

Answer 3

The tokens are secondary reinforcers. They derive value from association with the reward.

Question 4

What is the fourth AO1 point you must know for behaviour modification

Answer 4

Tokens can be exchanged from something desirable (the primary reinforcers) for example a phone call, time in the gym, extra food etc. The rewards should not be things that people class as “basic human rights”

Question 5

What is the fifth AO1 point you must know for behaviour modification

Answer 5

Each of the desirable behaviours and rewards would be made clear to the prisoners before the programme is implemented.

Question 6

What is the sixth AO1 point you must know for behaviour modification

Answer 6

It would also be emphasised that noncompliance, or disobedience may result in the tokens, and therefore the associated privileges, being withheld or removed. This is a form of punishment