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Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis logoLink to Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
. 1973 Fall;6(3):419–423. doi: 10.1901/jaba.1973.6-419

Application of the Premack principle to the behavioral control of extremely inactive schizrophrenics1

William S Mitchell 1, Bertram E Stoffelmayr 1
PMCID: PMC1310854  PMID: 16795424

Abstract

The four most inactive schizophrenic patients were selected by an observational technique from a ward of severely ill chronic patients. Of the four, two patients repeatedly refused to accept any dispensable rewards. Applying Premack's principle of reinforcement, consistent work behavior was shaped and maintained, using sitting as the reinforcer. The results indicate that the strict application of Premack's principle may have considerable therapeutic potential for those patients who, by refusing all tangible rewards, fail to respond to a reinforcement regime.

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Selected References

These references are in PubMed. This may not be the complete list of references from this article.

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