Behavior Theory

Behavior Theory:

Behavior Theory is an approach that applies the principles of learning to the resolution of specific behavioral problems. Results are subject to continual experimentation, the methods of this approach are always in the process of refinement (Corey, 2009).

Key Figures:

B. F. Skinner

(1904-1990)

Albert Bandura

(1925 – Present)

Arnold Lazarus

(1932 – Present)

 

Key Concepts and Procedures:

Emphasizes current behavior

Various therapeutic strategies

Procedures are declared clearly, and tested regularly

Particular behaviors are measured before and after the treatment

Therapeutic Goals:

Client-therapist collaboration

Establishes concrete and measurable goals at the beginning of the treatment

Goals to help enhance one’s personal choices

To help create new conditions for a person’s learning environment

A focus on eliminating maladaptive behaviors and other learn effective behavior patterns

Techniques and Procedures:

Methods of relaxation

Self-management programs

Systematic desensitization

EMDR

Assertion training

Multimodal therapy

References:

Corey, G. (2009).  Theory and Practice of Counseling and Psychotherapy (eighth edition). Belmont, Ca: Thomas Higher Education.