Foundations of Behaviorism
What is the main assumption of behaviorism regarding the cause of behavior?
All behavior is learned and can be changed through conditioning
What foundational assumption does behavior therapy make about all behavior?
That all behavior is learned and can therefore be unlearned or modified
Whose experiment with dogs helped define classical conditioning?
Ivan Pavlov
What technique helps clients confront anxiety-provoking stimuli in a controlled, step-by-step way?
Graduated exposure
What type of clients might prefer behavior therapy because it focuses on action rather than emotion?
Clients from cultures or backgrounds where emotional expression is discouraged
What is the primary focus of behavior therapists?
Achieving measurable results through changing behavior
Behavior therapists are primarily focused on achieving what kind of outcomes?
Measurable and observable behavioral change
What is the technique that gradually exposes clients to feared stimuli?
Systematic desensitization
What relaxation technique involves tensing and releasing muscles to reduce anxiety?
Progressive muscle relaxation
What is one major strength of behavior therapy in counseling?
It produces clear, rapid, and measurable outcomes
According to behaviorism, what should be done to problem behaviors?
They should be unlearned and replaced with more desirable behaviors
What is a “baseline” in behavior therapy?
A measure of how frequently a target behavior occurs before intervention begins
Who is known for developing operant conditioning?
B.F. Skinner
What is the term for using a digital or simulated environment to safely expose clients to feared situations?
Virtual reality therapy
What is a common criticism of behavior therapy regarding emotional depth?
It may neglect the emotional and cognitive causes of behavior
What do behaviorists typically avoid focusing on when addressing behavioral problems?
Thoughts and feelings
What key concept explains the idea that behaviors followed by rewards are more likely to occur again?
Reinforcement
What does the ABC model in operant conditioning stand for?
Antecedent, Behavior, Consequence
What is the purpose of a token economy system in behavior therapy?
To reinforce desirable behavior through a system of tokens that can be exchanged for rewards
What danger exists if behavior therapy focuses only on symptoms?
It may achieve only superficial or temporary improvements
What are common reasons clients seek behavior therapy? Name 1-2 (or as many as you'd like)
Issues like; overeating, substance abuse, poor impulse control, and difficulty managing relationships or job/school expectations
What is the term for the process of weakening and eventually eliminating a behavior by removing its reinforcement?
Extinction
What operant techniques are used to encourage or discourage behaviors?
+/- reinforcement and +/- punishment
What type of reinforcement involves removing an unpleasant stimulus after a behavior to increase its occurrence?
Negative reinforcement
How does behavior therapy promote client autonomy and competence?
By encouraging active participation and skill-building throughout the process