behavioural approach to explaining phobias

Question 1

what is the two-process model? (2)

Answer 1

● argues that phobias are learned / acquired through classical conditioning

● but are then maintained through operant conditioning

Question 2

what is classical conditioning? (2)

Answer 2

● phobias learned via classical conditioning when associating a neutral stimulus with an unconditioned stimulus that causes fear

● resulting in a conditioned stimulus that produces a conditioned response of fear

Question 3

what was the little albert study? (2)

Answer 3

● watson & rayner conditioned a baby boy known as little albert to fear white rats

● fear ended up being generalised to other similar objects: rabbit, white mask, santa and fur coat

Question 4

what is generalisation?

Answer 4

phobia is generalised to other similar objects meaning you are also afraid of them

Question 5

how are phobias maintained?

Answer 5

operant conditioning

Question 6

describe how phobias are maintained (4)

Answer 6

● whenever a person avoids phobic stimulus, they successfully escape the feelings of fear and anxiety they would have experienced if they had remained there

● this reduction of fear / anxiety reinforces the avoidance behaviour

● thus, the phobia is maintained

● this is negative reinforcement