ABSTRACT
This chapter presents four basic social learning principles with two sets of examples. These principles are: positive reinforcement, Modeling and Imitation, extinction and punishment. In the first set of examples, illustrations of how that particular principle can play a role in learning delinquent behavior are given. In the second set of examples, illustrations of how that same principle might or has been used in modifying or helping delinquent behavior change. There are two basic strategies that utilize positive reinforcement in helping delinquents change and both have been widely used: reinforcing instances or time periods in which the delinquent behavior does not occur, and reinforcing behavior that is in itself incompatible with the delinquent behavior. The principle of modeling and imitation can play an influential part in helping delinquents change as well. It may sound incredible, but many delinquents don’t know how to do any behaviors other than their delinquent behaviors.
