Behavioral therapists
believe that maladaptive behavior and thinking is learned or conditioned and,
therefore, can be unlearned.
New, more constructive
behavior can then be taught or shaped.
Little attention is
paid to intrapsychic or unconscious forces. Instead, behavior therapy focuses
directly on overt behavior.
Behavior therapy has
been found to be particularly effective with anxiety and fear, using techniques
such as relaxation training, desensitization, and assertiveness training. To
increase the probability of success, behavioral therapists also attempt to
remove the reinforcing consequences of maladaptive behavior as well as to
reward appropriate behavior.
Social Plugin