Reinforcement versus relationship therapy for schizophrenics.

The efficacy of reinforcement versus relationship therapy was evaluated on a group of 22 chronic schizophrenic patients. The groups received both therapies in balanced order. Under reinforcement therapy improved behavior was rewarded with poker chips exchangeable for meals. Under relationship therapy each patient met daily for 10-13 wk. with an individual therapist. Before and after each therapy, Ss were rated for social behavior, work competence, and on conceptual and communication skills. Tests of mental efficiency, associative looseness, work set, social skills, and self-concept were also used. Both therapies improved functioning, but there were no systematic differences between them.