Behavioral Theory

Q1. Name and brief description of key figure (s)

Behavioral therapy is primarily associated with the figures of Ivan Palov and B.F. Skinner. In contrast to psychoanalytic therapy, which focuses on the internal, interior life of the client, behavioral therapy is focused upon externally directed, observable behavior. Skinner attempted to transform the evolving discipline of psychology into a true, observable science which could be tested with controllable variables. Behavioral therapy primarily can be characterized by three dominant approaches. First is classical conditioning, which was pioneered by Pavlov and involved conditioning a natural response to an object that otherwise would not bring forth that behavior (i.e., salivating at the sound of a dinner bell). Secondly, Skinners operant condition involved using a system of rewards and punishments to encourage highly specific behaviors. Finally, cognitive behavioral therapy is commonly used today to address issues spanning from depression to eating disorders by identifying nonproductive behaviors to replace them with more productive ones.

Q2. Key Points.

a. Classical conditioning involves creating an association between an unconditioned stimulus and a naturally occurring response.

b. Classical extinction occurs when the conditioned stimulus is presented without the unconditioned stimulus (for example, if a bell is constantly rung without the dog being presented with food, the dog will cease to salivate at the sound of a bell).

c. Operant conditioning involves shaping behaviors with a series of rewards and punishments. Reinforcement is best achieved initially with continuous reinforcement, which can then be switched to schedules of partial or intermittent reinforcement. As with classical conditioning, extinction is achieved through withdrawal of reinforcement.

d. Primary reinforcers in operant conditioning refer to stimuli which are naturally reinforcing, such as food. Secondary reinforcers refer to stimuli such as tokens, which may be used in behavioral conditioning such as when children are given tokens for behaving in a positive manner. In this token economy, the subjects can then exchange secondary reinforcers for primary reinforcers such as...…to measure them. Behavioral reinforcers and goals are likewise established. As can be seen from this structure, the counselor is very much in the drivers seat of the counseling process, and punishment as well as support and reward are structured within the assumptions of therapy.

Q6. Personal Reaction to Theory

I find this behavioral approach very potentially problematic and possibly open to overreliance upon punishment. In some specific instances, such as smoking cessation or extinguishing obsessive behaviors, I can see that it might have some value, with the agreement of the client. But for minor clients, the use of reinforcers can just make the child angry and confused. There is an underlying presumption that the client is largely in control of the problematic behaviors at all times, even though behavioral therapists admit that clients often had very little control over the initial experiences which resulted in the adaptation of the negative coping mechanisms. There is also very little allowance for genetic influences beyond the clients…