3) Behavioural Approach explaining Phobias

Question 1

How can we explain phobias using the behavioural approach

Answer 1

Two process model

Question 2

What is found within the two process model

Answer 2

• Classical & operant conditioning

Question 3

Who introduced this idea of the two process model

Answer 3

Mower
- learnt through classical and maintained through operant conditioning

Question 4

How is a phobia acquired through classical conditioning

Answer 4

Classical conditioning involves association
1) UCS triggers fear (UCR)
2. NS is associated with UCS
3. NS becomes a CS producing fear

Question 5

What’s of an example of a case where someone was conditioned a fear

Answer 5

Litte Albert
(loud noise - white fur)

Question 6

What can also happen to fears

Answer 6

They can be generalised to other stimuli
- Little Albert - Santa Claus

Question 7

How does operant condition maintain fears

Answer 7

• Negative reinforcement
  Avoid stimuli rewarded with anxiety not taking place

Question 8

EV - Two process model has real-world application

Answer 8

• The idea that phobias are maintained by avoidance is important bc shows why exposure therapies are important
• prevent avoidance cease reinforcement by reduction of anxiety, avoidance behaviour reduces
• Show value of two process models treating phobias

Question 9

EV - inability to explain cognitive aspects of phobias

Answer 9

• Explain behaviour
• Phobias have a significant cognitive component e.g irrational beliefs
• does not full explain symptoms of phobias

Question 10

EV - Evidence linking phobias to bad experiences

Answer 10

• De Jongh et al found 73% of dental phobics had experienced dental trauma
• Compared to control group who had significantly less bad experiences
• confirms association between stimulus and unconditioned response leading to phobia

Question 11

How many people in De Jongh et al experiment had a dental trauma

Answer 11

73%