A behavior analysis of the socioeducative measures in the Children and Adolescent Code

Abstract

The notion of socioeducative measures first appears in laws in the Children and Adolescent Code (Law 8.069/1990), being considered a milestone in the paradigm of integral protection. Currently, there are still numerous challenges in the socioeducative system, such as high recidivism rates, low educational outcomes, and poor working conditions. The present study investigated, in light of Behavior Analysis, the contingencies present in the law of the Children and Adolescent Code regarding the application of socioeducative measures, mainly expressed between Articles 103 and 128. The results reveal incomplete definitions regarding antecedents (situations in which each measure should be applied) and consequences (expected objectives from the application of the measures), as well as inconsistencies between sections related to the adolescent or the authority. It is considered that incomplete contingencies di­rectly impact the functioning of the socioeducative system, as the lack of legal operational­ization leads to uncertainties of a practical nature. Thus, despite the great importance of the Code, its content is insufficient to guide socioeducative measures, relying on complementary documents. Finally, the implications of contingencies based on aversive control and the pos­sibilities, from the perspective of Behavior Analysis, for overcoming some of the problems of the socio-educational system are discussed.