Explaining Phobias

Question 1

Describe the two process model - mower (1947)

Answer 1

1. The acquisition of phobias is seen as occurring through classical conditioning (or indirectly through social learning)
2. The maintenance of phobias is seen as occurring through operant conditioning where avoiding or escaping from a feared object / situation acts as a negative reinforcer

Question 2

Little Albert - case study

Answer 2

Before conditioning

• Loud bang = fear
• Animal = no fear

During conditioning
- loud bang + animal = fear

After conditioning
- animal = fear

Question 3

Define generalisation

Answer 3

When a conditioned response is produced to stimuli that are similar to the conditioned stimulus