behavioural approach to explaining phobias

Question 1

key assumptions of the behavioural; approach to explaining phobias

Answer 1

-all phobias are learned as opposed to being inherited
-phobias are learned through the process of conditioning
-classical suggests phobias are learned through association of two stimuli being paired together
-operant suggests phobias are learned through consequences of behaviour including reinforcement

Question 2

who suggested the two process model

Answer 2

Mowrer

Question 3

what is the two process model?

Answer 3

the first stage suggests why phobias begin in the first place (ignition) and the second suggests why phobias continue (maintenance)

Question 4

describe the initiation stage

Answer 4

based upon the principles of classical conditioning, it is assumed that phobias develop as a result of a paired association between a numeral stimulus and something that triggers a fear response-an unconditioned stimulus

Question 5

Little Albert study

Answer 5

classical conditioning
11 month years old
series off object
every time shown the white rat make a Loud bang
white rat associated with loud bang

Question 6

describe maintenance

Answer 6

operant conditioning explains why individuals continue to have the phobia. according to this theory behaviour towards the phobic stimulus usually involves avoidance. Avoiding the phobic stimulus becomes a behaviour which is repeated as it is rewarding because it reduces anxiety and fear. Therefore avoidance acts as negative reinforcement because it removes the unpleasant feelings

Question 7

evaluation of the behavioural approach to explain phobia

Answer 7

:)-there is evidence to support that phobias are learnt/ initiated through classical conditioning
x-there is evidence that contradicts that phobias are learnt/ initiated through classical conditioning
x-accused of being reductionist
x-accused of being deterministic
x-there are evolutionary explanations for the initiation of phobias, that classical conditioning does not consider