Abstract
I commend Dr. Ayllon for disassociating himself from the abuses which are all too common in institutional applications of behavior modification.1 We agree that the rights of patients should not be infringed. At this point, however, he and I part company. I would like to direct my comments to three more basic issues. First, institutional behavior modification programs probably do not effect permanent behavior changes. These programs, however, may help the keepers of institutions to maintain their dominance over the caged. Second, therefore, behavior modification in institutions is very often a fraud and a sham. This deception is furthered by the obfuscatory and esoteric jargon that is part and parcel of behavior therapy. Finally, although Ayllon and I both deplore abuses of behavior modification, I argue that serious abuses of behavior modification in total institutions are inevitable. I cannot share Ayllon's faith that mere guidelines can restrain the basic nature of a total institution. That basic nature requires that all available technologies be turned to destructive purposes.
How to Cite
17 Ariz. L. Rev. 20 (1975)
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