Behaviorism Therapy Treatment
Behaviorism therapy is a type of psychological treatment that focuses on changing
unwanted behaviors through observable and measurable means. Behaviorism
therapy holds the belief that behavior is learned through interactions with the
environment and that all behaviors can be changed or modified.
The premise of behaviorism therapy is that by modifying environmental factors that
contribute to unwanted behaviors, such behaviors can be eliminated or replaced by
more desirable ones. This can be achieved through positive and negative
reinforcement, punishment, shaping, and extinction.
A variety of techniques are used in behaviorism therapy including classical and
operant conditioning, behavior modeling, systematic desensitization, and token
economies.
Classical conditioning involves pairing a neutral stimulus with a positive or negative
response to create a conditioned response. For example, a patient with a phobia of
spiders may be exposed to spiders while simultaneously experiencing a relaxing or
positive stimulus, such as music or deep breathing exercises. Over time, the patient
will associate spiders with the positive stimulus and may overcome their fear.
Operant conditioning involves reinforcing desired behaviors with positive rewards or
punishment and extinguishing undesired behaviors by removing rewards or
providing negative consequences. This technique can be effective in treating
addiction, OCD, and other behavioral disorders.
Behavior modeling involves observing and learning from the behaviors of others.
Patients may be encouraged to model the behaviors of successful individuals to
achieve similar results.
Systematic desensitization is a technique used to help patients overcome anxiety or
phobias. Patients are exposed to progressively increasing levels of anxiety-provoking
stimuli until they are desensitized to the stimulus.
Finally, token economies involve providing patients with tokens or rewards for
positive behaviors, which can be exchanged for privileges or rewards.
Behaviorism therapy has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of disorders,
including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and addiction. However, it is important to note
that behaviorism therapy may not be effective for all patients, and it is important to
seek the advice of a qualified mental health professional before beginning any
treatment program.
1. Behaviorism therapy has been widely used in treating various mental health conditions. One
of the benefits of this type of therapy is that it focuses on observable and measurable
behaviors, making it easier to track progress. Additionally, behaviorism therapy can be
tailored to fit the specific needs of each patient. For example, a patient with addiction may
benefit from operant conditioning techniques while a patient with anxiety may benefit from
systematic desensitization.
2.
3. It is important to note that behaviorism therapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution and may not
work for everyone. It is crucial for patients to seek the guidance of a qualified mental health
professional before starting any treatment program. Furthermore, behaviorism therapy
should not be viewed as a replacement for other forms of treatment such as medication or
talk therapy but rather as an additional tool in the treatment arsenal.
4. Overall, behaviorism therapy has shown promising results in helping patients overcome
unwanted behaviors and improve their quality of life. With proper guidance and support,
patients can learn new skills and techniques to manage their symptoms and achieve lasting
change.
How operant conditioning can be used to treat mental health patient, with
references?
1. Systematic Desensitization: This technique is used to treat anxiety disorders and
phobias. The patient is gradually exposed to the feared object or situation in a safe
and controlled environment, while simultaneously learning relaxation techniques.
2. Token Economy: This approach is commonly used in psychiatric hospitals and
residential treatment facilities. Patients are rewarded with tokens for positive
behaviors, which can then be exchanged for privileges or rewards.
3. Contingency Management: This technique involves providing tangible rewards for
desired behaviors, such as drug abstinence or attendance at therapy sessions.
4. Behavioral Activation: This approach focuses on increasing engagement in positive
activities to improve mood and decrease symptoms of depression.
5. Cognitive Restructuring: This technique aims to identify and challenge negative
thought patterns that contribute to mental health disorders, and replace them with
more adaptive thoughts.
References:
- Kazdin, A.E. (2007). Behavior Modification in Applied Settings (6th ed.). Belmont,
CA: Wadsworth.
- Beck, J.S. (2011). Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Basics and Beyond (2nd ed.). New
York: Guilford Press.
- Linehan, M.M. (1993). Skills Training Manual for Treating Borderline Personality
Disorder. New York: Guilford Press.
- Higgins, S.T., Silverman, K., & Heil, S.H. (2008). Contingency Management in
Substance Abuse Treatment. New York: Guilford Press.
- Wolpe, J., & Lazarus, A.A. (1966). Behavior Therapy Techniques: A Guide to the
Treatment of Neuroses. New York: Pergamon Press.
Continuation:
6. Positive Reinforcement Training - this method involves rewarding patients when
they exhibit desirable behaviours or traits using praise or tangible items such as
treats or gifts.
7. Exposure Therapy - this type of therapy involves exposing patients to stimuli that
trigger their anxiety or fear responses under controlled conditions until they become
desensitized to the stimuli.
8. Response Prevention - this method aims at preventing patients from engaging in
compulsive behaviours by teaching them alternative ways of responding to their
triggers.
9. Social Skills Training - this approach helps patients learn how to interact positively
with others by teaching them effective communication skills and social cues.
10.Behavioural Contracting - this technique is used when treating patients who have
difficulty sticking with treatment plans; it involves creating a written agreement
between the patient and therapist outlining specific goals and rewards for achieving
them.
References:
- Foa EB & Rothbaum BO (1998) Treating the Trauma of Rape Cognitive-Behavioral
Therapy for PTSD
-Goldfried MR & Davison GC(1994) Clinical behavior therapy
-Sperry L.(2005)Behavioral interventions in cognitive behavior therapy
-Marder SR et al.(2003)Treatment of schizophrenia with psychosocial therapies
-Rathus JH et al.(1979)Behavior Therapy Techniques
References:
5. Cherry, K. (2021). Behaviorism and Behavior Therapy. Verywell Mind.
6.
7.
https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-behaviorism-2794852
McLeod, S. A. (2018). Behaviorist Approach. Simply Psychology.
https://www.simplypsychology.org/behaviorism.html
National Alliance on Mental Illness. (2019). Types of Therapy. https://www.nami.org/learnmore/treatment/types-of-therapy