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The Role of Food Substitutes in a Token Economy System

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 January 2018

Derek W. Scott
Affiliation:
St Andrew's Hospital, Northampton
Rodger Ll. Wood*
Affiliation:
St Andrew's Hospital, Northampton
*
Correspondence

Abstract

Data from five behaviour management (token economy) units were analysed for periods of 10–20 weeks before and after the use of a food substitute (Complan®), provided when insufficient tokens had been earned to buy a full- or part-meal. The efficacy of this form of negative punishment to control disturbed and aggressive behaviour was examined. No evidence was found to suggest that the contingent use of a food substitute made any contribution to the therapeutic process.

Type
Brief Reports
Copyright
Copyright © 1987 The Royal College of Psychiatrists 

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