Methods Of Modifying Behaviour 2: Aversion Therapy

Question 1

What is aversion therapy

Answer 1

Based on principles of classical conditioning. Naturally unpleasant stimulus (UCS) produces a negative response (UCR). The UCS is then paired with the addictive behaviour (NS) and a conditioned response (CR) is learned. So the individual associated the addictive behaviour (now a CS) with the negative CR.

Question 2

What is Antabuse

Answer 2

To treat alcohol, individuals can be given a drug called Antabuse to act as the aversive stimulus.

Question 3

How does Antabuse work

Answer 3

By affecting how the body metabolises alcohol. If caused a reaction known as the disulfiram reaction, which stops the enzyme that metabolises alcohol from working and therefore causes a build-up of acetaldehyde in the bloodstream.

Question 4

What does a build up of acetaldehyde cause

Answer 4

Unpleasant symptoms

• sweating
• heart palpitations
• headaches
• vomiting

Question 5

How long does the drug take to cause effect

Answer 5

Within 10 minutes of consuming alcohol and can last for a few hours.