Topic 3 - The Behaviourist Explanation Of Mental Illness

Question 1

What is classical conditioning explanation of phobias?

Answer 1

Acquiring a phobia by the researchers pairing a loud noise with a white rat - after few days, a phobia developed towards the rat

Question 2

What is operant conditioning explanation of phobias?

Answer 2

Positive reinforcement - getting conform from parent when fear response shows - this reinforces the fear response
Negative reinforcement - avoiding the fear - reinforces the fear by lowering their anxiety level when they show the avoidance behaviour

Question 3

What is social learning theory explanation of phobias?

Answer 3

Observing adult role models and imitation their behaviour - children and teenagers modelling unhealthy, ineffective ways due to role models