Behavior Modification in a Prison

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Abstract
A large-scale contingency management program, which the authors instituted and supervised for 18 months in the Virginia correctional system, is described and provides the basis for a discussion of current issues raised by many similar, behaviorally based treatment programs. Conflicting conceptions of "behavior modification" and the rationale for choosing the behavioral model are discussed, and issues concerning ethical, legal, and administrative matters are explored in terms of initial program procedures and subsequent refinements. Throughout, recommendations are rendered for increasing the probability that a behavior modification program in corrections would be practical, effective, and ethical, and appreciated by both corrections personnel and inmates as well as by the general public.