Overview
This lecture explains the behaviorist explanation of phobias, focusing on how they are acquired and maintained, and evaluates the strengths and limitations of this approach.
The Behaviorist Explanation of Phobias
- The behaviorist approach emphasizes that behaviors are learned from the environment through stimulus-response associations.
- Two main types of learning are involved: classical conditioning (learning via association) and operant conditioning (learning via consequences and reinforcement).
- Classical conditioning involves pairing a neutral stimulus with an unconditioned stimulus until the neutral stimulus produces a fear response.
- Operant conditioning maintains phobias through negative reinforcement, where avoiding a phobic stimulus reduces anxiety, reinforcing the avoidance behavior.
The Two-Process Model
- Hobart Mowrer (1960) proposed that phobias are acquired by classical conditioning and maintained by operant conditioning.
- Example: A person develops a phobia of balloons after balloons (neutral stimulus) are paired with a loud noise (unconditioned stimulus), resulting in fear.
- Avoidance of balloons maintains the phobia through negative reinforcement because it reduces anxiety.
Supporting Evidence
- Watson and Rayner's (1920) "Little Albert" study demonstrated classical conditioning of a phobia in a child, using a white rat paired with a loud noise.
Practical Applications
- The behaviorist explanation has practical value in treatments like systematic desensitization, where patients learn to associate the feared stimulus with relaxation.
Evaluation of the Behaviorist Explanation
- Biological explanations: The behaviorist model does not consider genetic predispositions; Seligman (1971) suggested humans are biologically prepared to fear certain things.
- Cognitive explanations: The behaviorist model ignores the role of irrational thoughts, which are key in the anxiety and maintenance of phobias.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Classical Conditioning — Learning by association of a neutral and unconditioned stimulus.
- Operant Conditioning — Learning based on consequences and reinforcement.
- Negative Reinforcement — Strengthening behavior by removing an unpleasant stimulus.
- Two-Process Model — Theory that phobias are acquired by classical conditioning and maintained by operant conditioning.
- Systematic Desensitization — Therapeutic method using gradual exposure to fear while relaxed.
- Biological Preparedness — Genetic predisposition to develop certain fears.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review systematic desensitization techniques.
- Read or watch related materials on behavioral, biological, and cognitive explanations for phobias, depression, and OCD.