METHODOLOGY

Cognitive Behavioural Practice

At Concept Care we employ a behaviour modification system to reduce unacceptable behaviour. As no technique on its own can successfully do this, staff employ a range of tools effectively and consistently.

The Concept Care reward system is based on a balance of long and short term targets for each day. These targets are individualised to pinpoint certain areas of behaviour prevalent in the young person.

The behaviour modification system that we use at Concept Care is a result of fine-tuning and constant monitoring in order to achieve the maximum results for the young people that we work with. The system has a three-tier structure (Red, Amber, Green) and the young people are placed in a group dependent on their weekly achievements. Each Group has an increased level of reward and benefits.

We recognise that behaviour modification systems do not work on their own. An understanding of why we need to work in certain ways is imperative if there is to be any progress in a young person’s behaviour. Simple rewards alone do not change anything in the long term. We bring this about through consistent staff involvement and challenge to the young person’s cognitive structure and the way they think about themselves and/or others.

We work with young people to bring about cognitive restructuring. This involves challenging young people’s negative thoughts and ways of thinking, such as catastrophising, black and white thinking and ignoring the positives. This work with young people is consistent and on going.

Staff at Concept Care are aware of the importance of modelling appropriate behaviour and relationships. This too helps to change negative and challenging behaviour and gives the young people alternative strategies to help them cope on a day-to-day basis.

By the use of informal, individual counselling and group work and regular key-working sessions, progress is maintained. We encourage, where appropriate, rehabilitation within the family environment.
We enable a young person to build and maintain relationships with others. We help a young person to develop his self-esteem by individual effort and group membership.

We provide the boys with a predictable environment via community meetings and regular group meetings with staff. We aim to meet the basic needs of acceptance and non-rejection.