III. The Challenge of Incentives

The most effective way to reinforce offender behavior is to use rewards. Incentives, or positive reinforcements, can be either adding something positive, such as a compliment or affirmation, or taking away an existing punishment or restriction (i.e., requiring fewer drug tests or supervision appointments). Research on behavior management clearly illustrates that incentives are more important to affect offender behavior, and thus reduce recidivism and increase public safety.