Ad

Contingency Management

Ad Disclosure: Some of our MentalHelp.net recommendations, including BetterHelp, are also affiliates, and as such we may receive compensation from them if you choose to purchase products or services through the links provided

Contingency management (CM) is a type of behavior therapy often used in addiction treatment programs (Tuten, Jones, Schaeffer & Stitzer, 2011). The developers of CM based it on the principles of operant conditioning. In this type of treatment, individuals are rewarded for improved behavior. Some contingency management programs also punish participants for undesirable behaviors. Rewards often come in the form of vouchers for free goods or services. A voucher might be a free movie ticket, for example. Research shows that contingency management can be an effective approach to addiction treatment for people with limited financial resources. Clearly, in order for rewards to be motivating, the reward must be in fact be rewarding. For example, if someone doesn't enjoy movies then a movie ticket will not sufficiently motivate someone to change their behavior. The effectiveness of contingency management tends to fade after the rewards (and punishments) are taken away. Most individuals need to strengthen their internal motivation in order to change their behavior in the long-term. Nonetheless, contingency management is useful for teaching people they are able to change their behavior when sufficiently motivated.

Additional Resources

As advocates of mental health and wellness, we take great pride in educating our readers on the various online therapy providers available. MentalHelp has partnered with several thought leaders in the mental health and wellness space, so we can help you make informed decisions on your wellness journey. MentalHelp may receive marketing compensation from these companies should you choose to use their services.

MentalHelp may receive marketing compensation from the above-listed companies should you choose to use their services.

Ad

Myndfulness App

Designed to Help You Feel Better Daily

Myndfuless App Rating

Download Now For Free

Learn More >

Ad
Ad
Ad