IMPROVING BEHAVIOR IN A RESIDENTIAL SERVICE FOR YOUTH IN DRUG AND ALCOHOL REHABILITATION

A token reinforcement program, named ‘Thumbs Up’, was introduced in a residential therapeutic community for drug and alcohol rehabilitation. Sixteen young people aged 14–17 years participated for varying durations. Participants were able to negotiate target behaviors and choose backup reinforcers. We evaluated the program within a multiple baseline design across participants, settings, and behaviors. Improvements occurred in positive verbal statements across settings, timely room cleaning, and leadership responsibilities. Inappropriate statements were also measured and did not change. One staff member was trained in the use of Thumbs Up with positive results. Difficulties with implementing behavioral interventions in a non‐behaviorally oriented treatment service were identified. Despite needing refinements, it was concluded that a token reinforcement program can be an effective and acceptable means of improving behavior within a therapeutic community framework. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.