Behavioral Modification of Schizophrenia: A Review

Abstract

Reviews application of behavior modification technology to a wide variety of schizophrenic behaviors, including social interaction, delusions, hallucinations, self-help and grooming skills, and instrumental work behavior. Data are cited indicating that the token economy, a systematic and consistent use of reinforcement principles to patients' behaviors in a ward milieu, has been effective in increasing the adaptive repertoire of institutionalized schizophrenics. Behavioral interventions are effective even when phenothiazine medication is withdrawn from chronic psychotics, reflecting the interactions between environmental control, behavior, and drugs. In an environment where contingencies of reinforcement are consistently applied toward improving patients' behavior, the major tranquilizers appear to be less critically necessary than in a milieu where custodial care is provided. Generalization of treatment effects of new situations, such as the community, has not yet been established. However, methods are available to enhance generalization or transfer of training. While the functional relationship between reinforcement and behavioral changes has been established, it is suggested that other research designs are needed to compare groups of patients exposed to different types of interventions. (41 ref.) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2013 APA, all rights reserved)