[Psychopathology] Topic 4 - Behavioural approach to explaining phobias

Question 1

Mowrer- Two process model

Answer 1

• Mowrer proposed the two-process model to explain phobias. The first process is classical conditioning. This explains how a phobia is acquired.
• If initially neutral stimulus is paired with UCS that produces an UCR of fear then the NS will become a CS and produce a fear as a CR whenever its presented.
  Example:
• Little Albert: Watson, NSRat —> UCS Loud bang = CR of fear. After making this pairing 4 times little Albert produce a CR of fear. The rat would then produce the CS of fear on its own

Question 2

How are Phobias maintained?

Answer 2

Operant conditioning:

• This explains why phobias are maintained. If fear is lowered by avoiding the phobic stimulus then avoidance behaviour becomes a negative reinforcer.
• E.g afraid of dogs, if avoiding makes u feel relaxed then you’ll avoid dogs more often.

Question 3

Evaluation 1 :

Answer 3

• The two process model is supported by research asking people about their phobias.
• Sue et al found some people can recall a specific event that led to their phobia developing.
• For example Sue et al found that agoraphocics are more likely to explain their phobia in terms of a specific event.
• This shows that classical conditioning can be involved in developing phobias

Question 4

Evaluation 2:

Answer 4

• One limitation of the two-process model is that a phobia does not always develop after a traumatic incident
• For example DiNardo et al found that not everyone who is bitten by a dog develops a phobia of dogs.
• The diathesis-model says we inherit a genetic vulnerability for developing mental disorders, but a disorder will only manifest itself if triggered by a life event.
• This suggests a dog bite will only lead to a phobia in people with such a vulnerability