Research article summary (published 30 Dec 1975):

The cellblock token economy: token reinforcement procedures in a maximum security correctional institution for adult male felons.

Full Abstract

Two experiments were conducted (1) to explore the application of token reinforcement procedures in a maximum security correctional institution for adult male felons and (2) to determine to what extent the reinforcement procedures disrupted the day-to-day lives of inmate participants. In Experiment 1, an expanded reversal design revealed that the combination of praise and token reinforcement was more effective than the combinations of praise and noncontingent token award or direct commands on four common institutional activities. The latter two combinations were not found to be any more effective than praise alone. Experiment 2, which also employed a reversal design, indicated that the high levels of performance observed during the token reinforcement phases of Experiment 1 could be attained without subjecting participants to undue hardship in the form of increased deprivation of either social intercourse or the opportunity to engage in recreational and entertainment activities. Client safeguards are discussed in detail.

Author information

Author/s: Milan, M A (MA); McKee, J M (JM);

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article; Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

Journal: Journal of applied behavior analysis (J Appl Behav Anal), published in UNITED STATES. (Language: eng)

Reference: 1976-; vol 9 (issue 3) : pp 253-75

Dates: Created 1976/12/30; Completed 1976/12/30; Revised 2008/11/20;

PMID: 977516, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 2/18/2009, IMS Date: )

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

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MeSH headings (categories)

This article was linked to the MESH Headings shown below.

Activities of Daily Living Adolescent Adult Behavior Therapy Crime Humans Male Middle Aged

Prisoners Prisons Reinforcement (Psychology) Reinforcement Schedule Reinforcement, Verbal Reward Set (Psychology) Token Economy

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