III. The Challenge of Incentives

Both kinds of positive reinforcement, giving a "carrot" or taking away a "stick," serve as motivators for offenders. The goal of staff is to engage offenders in the process of change. In order for change to be sustained after the supervision period ends, offenders must be actively involved in the change process. Incentives serve as an effective means of keeping offenders motivated to change their behavior. Research indicates that punishments tend to cause offenders to change their behavior briefly or long enough to avoid further punishments. But it is likely that such changes may not continue once the threat of sanction is lifted. Research also suggests a ratio of four rewards to each punishment. The punishments and rewards do not have to occur simultaneously. If an offender has tested positive for marijuana use, he has to be punished, but if deserved he should be positively reinforced four times in the future for not testing positive or showing up for testing.

While staff may be accustomed to relaxing or removing restrictions as a positive reinforcement of behavior, the delivery of affirmative rewards for compliance and progress must become a more widely used tool. Using proper rewards and using them consistently and effectively will motivate offenders to change, and ultimately reduce recidivism and enhance public safety.