Token Economy Programs in Closed Institutions (From Behavioral Approaches to Crime and Delinquency: A Handbook of Application, Research, and Concepts, P 195-222, 1987, Edward K Morris and Curtis J Braukmann, eds. -- See NCJ-111159)

• NCJ Number: 111166
• Author(s): M A Milan
• Date Published: 1987
• Length: 28 pages
• Sale Source: Plenum Press
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This chapter reports on the effectiveness of token economies -- using media of exchange such as points, marks, or tokens -- to encourage and reward desirable behavior in closed institutions for juvenile delinquents and adult offenders.

Abstract

The token economies reported on are complex behavior rehabilitation and management systems involving many inmates, and they go beyond basic token reinforcement and response cost procedures. Token economies have existed in penal institutions since the middle of the 19th century. Inmate response to token economies varies, but in several studies reported, inmates preferred the clear definitions of goals and 'ground rules' that accompany behavioral programs. Research indicates that the token economy programs produce some long term positive effects. However, the effects are not as great or as enduring as the researchers had anticipated. Researchers point out that the ultimate success or failure of token economy programs cannot be assessed until a continuum of care and training from prevention to postrelease followup is developed. Additionally, behavioral strategies must be designed to ensure that inmates acquire, integrate, and maintain productive behavior after release. The author points out that behavioral programs remain controversial on legal, ethical, and professional grounds. 58 references.