Behavior Therapy Dr. Sparrow EPSY 6363

Background Reaction to psychoanalysis lack of objectivity based on “black box” of the unconscious long-term concepts that could not be verified avoided the obvious

Founding Concepts Classical conditioning -- neutral stimulus paired with “unconditional stimulus” will produce response Wolpe’s systematic desensitization is way to resolve phobias created through classical condition Operant conditioning -- behavior that is rewarded will be repeated; learning cannot occur without reinforcement. Early behavior theorists rejected “black box” of mediational concepts. Problem: donkey and bales of hay.

Founding Concepts Social learning theory -- an interactional, interdisciplinary approach which combines the above earlier approaches with observational learning. Cognition became important This is triadic reciprocal interaction between 1) environment, 2) internal factors and 3) behavior. Cognitive behavioral therapy, importance of self talk. Cognitive restructuring.

View of Human Nature Humans are producers and product of environment Current approach focuses on giving clients more control and freedom Mechanistic views of early behaviorist rejected in favor of self determination Convergence with humanistic therapy action oriented subjective realm is gaining importance role of responsibility

Basic Assumptions Based on scientific method -- objective and measurable symptoms and goals Present oriented Clients expected to take active role Teaching skills of self management Focus is on changing behavior Self control and self management Individually tailored, and culturally appropriate approaches Collaborative relationship, and fully informed clients Practical applications

Goals of therapy Increase choice Create new conditions for learning Formulation of clear goals through collaborative client-governed approach

Role of the therapist Consultants and problem solvers Conduct formal assessment Formulate treatment goals Formulate plan for generalizing and maintaining change Evaluate Follow up

Client’s Experience Clearly defined role Active role for client and therapist Encouraged to experiment Actions must follow plans Termination is based on clear goals being met.

The Therapeutic Relationship Most behavioral therapists accept the importance of therapist warmth, etc., but believe these factors are not sufficient to sustain change. Specific behavioral techniques account for the progress.

Behavioral Techniques Operant conditioning techniques positive reinforcement negative reinforcement punishment, positive and negative -- limited value The Functional Assessment Model Relaxation training Systematic desensitization

Behavioral Techniques, continued Exposure therapies In vivo desensitization flooding in vivo imaginal EMDR Assertion training Self management programs

Behavioral Techniques, continued Multimodal therapy -- Arnold Lazarus technical eclecticism basic i.d. -- behavior, affect, sensation, imagery, cognition, interpersonal, drugs/biology brief and comprehensive role of therapist to be authentic chameleons

Integrating Behavioral Techniques with Psychoanalysis Three phases object relations as a model for clarifying early formation of relationships; therapist participates in historic review there and then become insight for here and now relationship patterns behavioral techniques and homework to maximize change