An application of social learning methods in a residential programme for young offenders

Abstract

The application of behavioural principles to working with young offenders has been extensive in the U.S.A. in recent years with the development of the Achievement Place family group home programme a significant feature. Developments in the United Kingdom have been more limited, with no published accounts other than very partial replications of the Achievement Place approach. This paper describes the development of a partial replication of the Achievement Place approach in Unit One, a community based residential programme for young offenders in South East London. The Unit One programme incorporates a token economy, a school programme, teaching interactions and self-government. The paper describes successful outcomes for five out of eight of the delinquents first admitted to the programme, and identifies some of the factors associated with success. It also describes two process research projects evaluating effectiveness of training in social reinforcement for residential care staff, and in training teachers working with Unit One youth's to make effective demands for compliance. The paper concludes by highlighting problems in attempting a partial replication of the Achievement Place approach.