Behavior Therapy

Theroy: Behavior Therapy

Theorist: B.F. Skinner

Focus:  Behavior therapy is an approach to psychotherapy based on a learning theory which aims to treat psychopathology trough techniques designed to reinforce desired behavior and eliminate undesired behaviors. It is based on classical conditioning, operant conditioning, and modeling.

Strengths: More behavior therapies have been reported as successful and effective for specific problems, diagnoses, and populations when using this therapy than for any other therapy (Austad, 2009)

Weakness: There are so many techniques available to use that it may be hard to match the best technique for the patient.

Techniques Used: Models of behavior therapy include exposure therapies such as assertiveness, flooding, implosive therapy, and eye movement desensitization therapy. Contingency management therapy could include self-direction, self-control, token economy, aversive conditioning and punishment. Modeling therapies such as self-efficacy, problem-solving, self-instruction and stress inoculation, and social skills training can be used effectively. The therapeutic techniques are tailored to the unique needs of each client.

Personal example: I am a preschool teacher and I use the token economy as a class management tool. We have a kindness jar and when we “catch” a student doing something nice for someone they get to put a stone in the jar. When the jar is full the class decides votes on what the reward with be (pizza party, ice cream party…)

References:

Austad, C. (2009). Counseling and Psychotherapy Today, New York: The McGraw-Hill

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