1. Introductory paragraph: Behavior therapy, is the application of experimentally developed principles of learning to the treatment of psychological disorders. The concept comes from work of Ivan Pavlov, who published on the use of conditioning techniques, and theories of abnormal behavior. Behavior-therapy techniques differ from psychiatric methods, particularly psychoanalysis, in that they are the symptom-oriented and show little or no concern for unconscious processes, attaining new insight, or effecting personality change.
Name of Theory: Behavior Therapy/Behavioral therapy
Theory’s developer: B.F. Skinner/ Albert Bandura/ Arnold Lazarus
Basic Philosophy of the Theory: In behavior therapy, the view is that the person is the producer and the product of their environment. Behavior therapy aims to increase people’s skills so that they have more options for responding. By overcoming debilitating behaviors that restrict choices, people are freer to select from possibilities that were not available earlier. Thus, as behavior therapy is typically applied, it will increase individual freedom.
2. Key concepts of the theory and what is your analysis of the application of these fundamental concepts in the practice of counseling? Behavior therapy not only emphasizes current behavior but offers precise treatment goals, as well as varied therapeutic approaches. Objective evaluation of therapeutic outcomes and procedures are stated explicitly, tested, and revised on an as-needed basis, and specific behaviors are measured before and after treatment
3. What are the goals of therapy with this theory? How would a counselor’s treatment plan for the client be impacted by this theory? The primary goal of behavioral therapy is to reduce self-harm. Even though the risks of this treatment are minimal, some patients may consider the emotional aspects of the sessions risky. Exploring feelings and anxieties can cause many emotions, such as crying and anger. The emotional aftermath of therapy can be physically exhausting and painful. A therapist can help to improve coping mechanisms and to minimize any side effects from treatment.
4. The Therapeutic Relationship: Describe the therapist’s role and function within this theory. Describe the client’s experience in therapy with this theoretical focus. Behavior therapists need to be active, as well as directive and role as mentors and problem solvers. They use some methods common to other approaches, such as summarizing, reflection, clarification, and open-ended questioning. An additional important function of the therapist is role modeling for the client. It is vital that a therapist is aware of the centrality they play in the therapeutic process.
5. What are the relevant techniques employed in therapy with this theory? Some methods are available to the behavior therapist include Operant conditioning techniques, progressive muscle relaxation, Systematic desensitization, In vivo desensitization, Social skills training, as well as self-management.
6. What are some of the applications of this theory? Defend your response with examples. Behavior therapy has proven useful in many areas, for instance, it has been used to address intimacy in couples, forgiveness, chronic pain, anorexia, chronic distress, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and obesity.
7. What are the contributions and limitations of the theory to multicultural counseling? From a multicultural perspective, behavior therapists should be especially careful to take culture into account when developing goals, considering the role of the environment, and teaching skill development.
8. What are the contributions and limitations of the theory in general? Behavior therapy may change a client's behavior, but it does not change feelings. It ignores the important relational factors in therapy and does not does not provide insight. Behavior therapy treats symptoms instead of the causes. Behavioral therapists may acknowledge that deviant responses have historical origins, but they contend that history is seldom necessary for the maintenance of current problems.
9. What are the contributions and limitations of the theory in the integration of spirituality or religion in the counseling process? Many clients may use religious coping strategies, which have been found to be beneficial. Spirituality and religion can be very helpful when applied in counseling, and would be seen as an asset in clients who have strong spiritual or religious beliefs.
Works Cited
Corey, G. (2013). Theory and Practice of Counseling and Psychotherapy (9th ed.). Brooks/Cole Cengage Learning.