Behavior modification: A perspective on critical issues.

Discusses current behavior modification techniques, such as token economies, desensitization, and aversive therapy, and reviews the evidence on the efficacy of behavior modification. It is argued that the use of behavior modification has caused some individuals to express concern that these methods are manipulative and dehumanizing and that aversive techniques are especially subject to abuse. These issues are reviewed in terms of legitimate areas of concern and possible methods for developing safeguards to protect persons in behavior modification programs. Both the issues and the proposed solutions are applicable to all types of mental health programs. (41 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)