Behavior Therapy Lesson 8 PDF

Department of Psychology Introduction to Counseling (PSY 4112) ISAIAH EUGENE G. PEJI, MA, RPsy, RPm Kolehiyo ng Lungsod ng Dasmarinas Program Director AY 2024-2025 1st Semester Department of Psychology...

Department of Psychology Introduction to Counseling (PSY 4112) ISAIAH EUGENE G. PEJI, MA, RPsy, RPm Kolehiyo ng Lungsod ng Dasmarinas Program Director AY 2024-2025 1st Semester Department of Psychology BEHAVIOR THERAPY Introduction to Behavior Therapy Behavior Therapy focuses on changing observable behavior through various techniques rooted in learning principles. Its goal is to replace maladaptive behaviors with more constructive ones, assuming that behavior is learned through interactions with the environment and can be modified. Behavior therapy is widely used in many cultural contexts, including the Philippines, where it has been applied to address concerns like anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues among both children and adults. (a) Historical Background Behavior therapy emerged in the early 20th century as an alternative to psychoanalytic approaches. Influenced by the work of Ivan Pavlov (classical conditioning), B.F. Skinner (operant conditioning), Albert Bandura (social learning), and Joseph Wolpe (systematic desensitization), behavior therapy developed as a scientific approach grounded in empirical evidence. Early behaviorists believed that psychology should focus on observable behavior rather than internal mental states. (b) Four Areas of Development Behavior therapy has evolved through four major phases: 1. Classical Conditioning – Originating from Pavlov’s work, classical conditioning focuses on associating a neutral stimulus with an unconditioned stimulus to evoke a conditioned response. Techniques based on classical conditioning are used to treat anxiety, phobias, and other conditioned emotional responses. 2. Operant Conditioning – Developed by B.F. Skinner, operant conditioning involves the use of reinforcement and punishment to shape behavior. For example, in Filipino families, children might receive praise or a reward for demonstrating good manners, reinforcing positive behavior. 3. Social Learning Approach – Albert Bandura’s theory posits that learning can occur by observing others. For instance, in a Filipino classroom setting, students may learn behaviors like respect and cooperation by observing their peers and teachers.  4. Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) – This area combines cognitive and behavioral approaches, asserting that thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected. CBT is now a widely used approach in addressing various mental health issues. Key Concepts in Behavior Therapy (a) View of Human Nature Behavior therapy views humans as being shaped by their environment and interactions within it. Behaviors are learned and can be unlearned or modified. This approach assumes that people have the capacity to change their behaviors when they understand and modify the environmental cues influencing them. (b) Basic Characteristics and Assumptions Behavior therapy is grounded in these core assumptions: 1. Focus on Current Behavior – Unlike approaches that delve into past experiences, behavior therapy emphasizes the present. It addresses the "here and now," concentrating on observable behaviors rather than unobservable mental processes. 2. Behavior is Learned – Behavior therapy operates on the assumption that maladaptive behaviors are learned, meaning they can also be unlearned or modified through new learning experiences. 3. Scientific Approach – Behavior therapy relies on rigorous scientific methods, using data and evidence to measure the effectiveness of interventions. 4. Individualized Treatment – Interventions in behavior therapy are tailored to meet each client’s specific needs, taking into consideration cultural context. In the Philippines, for instance, behavior therapy for a student might incorporate family support, as Filipino culture emphasizes family involvement. The Therapeutic Process: Behavior Therapy (a) Therapeutic Goals Behavior therapy aims to identify and modify maladaptive behaviors, empowering clients to adopt more adaptive behaviors. In the Philippines, therapeutic goals might include reducing school-related anxiety in children or helping an adult quit smoking by reinforcing healthier coping mechanisms. ISAIAH EUGENE G. PEJI, MA, RPsy, RPm  (b) Therapist’s Function and Role The therapist takes on an active role, acting as a coach or teacher. They assess the client's behaviors, identify triggers, and implement techniques to modify these behaviors. Therapists also monitor progress closely, providing feedback and encouragement. (c) Client’s Experience in Therapy Clients are expected to engage actively in therapy by participating in exercises, practicing new behaviors outside of sessions, and providing feedback. In Filipino culture, involving family members in therapy can foster support and accountability, especially for younger clients. (d) Relationship Between Therapist and Client While the relationship in behavior therapy is collaborative, the focus remains on achieving behavioral change rather than deep emotional exploration. However, a good therapeutic rapport enhances trust and commitment to the process. In Filipino settings, the therapist’s role might extend to being a mentor, which aligns well with the value placed on respect for authority figures. Application of Behavior Therapy: Therapeutic Techniques and Procedures (a) Applied Behavioral Analysis: Operant Conditioning Techniques Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) employs operant conditioning principles to increase or decrease specific behaviors. Techniques include positive reinforcement (rewards) and negative reinforcement (removing an aversive stimulus to increase behavior). For example, in a Filipino classroom, a teacher might reward students for punctuality with praise, encouraging this behavior. (b) Progressive Muscle Relaxation Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) involves tensing and relaxing different muscle groups to reduce physical tension and promote relaxation. This technique is helpful in managing stress and anxiety, which is particularly relevant in high-stress Filipino work environments. (c) Systematic Desensitization Systematic Desensitization is a gradual process of exposing a client to anxiety-provoking stimuli while teaching relaxation techniques. For instance, if a Filipino client has a fear of public speaking, they might practice speaking in front of a small, supportive group and gradually increase their audience size. ISAIAH EUGENE G. PEJI, MA, RPsy, RPm  (d) In Vivo Exposure and Flooding In Vivo Exposure involves exposing clients to real-life situations that provoke anxiety, while Flooding exposes clients to the anxiety-provoking stimulus all at once. In Filipino culture, a therapist might use in vivo exposure to help a client face social situations, as these are common sources of anxiety. (e) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) EMDR is used primarily to treat trauma and involves recalling distressing events while moving the eyes in a specific pattern, thought to reduce the emotional impact of traumatic memories. Filipino clients who have experienced traumatic events, such as natural disasters or interpersonal violence, may benefit from EMDR. (f) Social Skills Training Social Skills Training teaches individuals how to interact effectively with others. This approach is particularly relevant in Filipino culture, where social harmony and effective communication are valued. For example, a therapist might work with a client to improve assertiveness skills in a respectful manner. (g) Self-Management Programs and Self-Directed Behavior Self-management programs encourage clients to take responsibility for their behavior by setting personal goals, monitoring their behavior, and implementing rewards or punishments. For a Filipino student, self-management might include setting study goals, tracking progress, and rewarding themselves for meeting objectives. (h) Application to Group Counseling Behavior therapy in group settings allows members to learn from one another’s experiences. In the Philippines, group counseling can be used to address common issues like substance abuse, where peers support each other in behavior change, promoting a collective sense of accountability. Behavior Therapy From a Multicultural Perspective Behavior therapy is generally adaptable across different cultures, but it is crucial to consider each culture's specific values and social norms. In the Philippines, behavior therapy may involve engaging family members and acknowledging the collective orientation of Filipino society. Therapy might need to account for Filipino values such as pakikisama (getting along with others) and hiya (shame), which can influence behavior and treatment responses. ISAIAH EUGENE G. PEJI, MA, RPsy, RPm For example, a Filipino client may struggle with assertiveness due to cultural expectations around respect and deference. Therapists can incorporate culturally relevant strategies to help the client practice assertive behaviors in a way that respects Filipino norms. ISAIAH EUGENE G. PEJI, MA, RPsy, RPm