Behavioural Approach - Explaning Phobias

Question 1

Behavioural approach

Answer 1

Explains behaviour in terms of learning and what is observable

Question 2

Classical conditioning

Answer 2

Learning through association

Question 3

Mowrer (1960)

Answer 3

Two process model - behavioural explanation of phobias stating phobias are initiated through classical conditioning and maintained through operant conditioning

Question 4

Strengths of the behavioural approach to explaining phobias

Answer 4

• Empirical case study evidence (eg. Watson & Rayner conditioned Little Albert to have a phobia of white rats by association of rat with loud noise)
• Two process model real world application (eg. Exposure therapies prevent avoidance with high success rates)

Question 5

Limitations of the behavioural approach to explaining phobias

Answer 5

• Not a complete explanation (eg. Evolutionary psychologists suggest some phobias are not learnt but innate)
• Ignores role of cognition (eg. Cognitivists argue phobias develop from irrational thinking which is considered successfully in CBT)