explaining phobias- behaviourist

Question 1

what are the 6 AO1 points you must know for explaining phobias- behaviourist approach?

Answer 1

-Two Process Model (Mowrer, 1960)
-Acquisition via Classical Conditioning
-Little Albert Study (Watson & Rayner, 1920)
-Maintenance via Operant Conditioning
-Avoidance Strengthens the Phobia
-Focus on Observable Behaviour

Question 2

What is the two-process model of phobias?

Answer 2

Proposed by Mowrer (1960), it explains phobias are acquired by classical conditioning and maintained by operant conditioning.

Question 3

How are phobias acquired through classical conditioning?

Answer 3

A neutral stimulus is paired with an unconditioned stimulus, creating a conditioned response (fear) to the previously neutral stimulus.

Question 4

What study supports classical conditioning of phobias?

Answer 4

Watson & Rayner’s (1920) Little Albert study — Albert was conditioned to fear a white rat when paired with a loud noise.

Question 5

How are phobias maintained through operant conditioning?

Answer 5

Through negative reinforcement — avoiding the phobic stimulus reduces anxiety, so the avoidance is reinforced.

Question 6

Why does avoidance behaviour strengthen phobias?

Answer 6

Because relief from anxiety makes it more likely the person will avoid the stimulus again, which reinforces the fear over time.

Question 7

What kind of behaviour does the behaviourist approach focus on?

Answer 7

It focuses on observable and measurable behaviour, viewing phobias as learned responses from environmental experiences.