Two Process Model

• The Two Process Model explains phobias and say they are learned - behavioural approach
• Mower ( 1960 ) - Two Process Model

  Phobias are acquired by classical conditioning

  And then

  Maintained by operant conditioning
• Acquisition by Classical Conditioning - TPM

  Phobias are a learned association between something we initially have no fear of ( neutral stimulus ) and something which already triggers a fear response ( unconditioned stimulus )

  • Little Albert
• Maintained by Operant Conditioning - TPM

  Phobias acquired by CC usually decline over time however phobias tend to be long lasting

  Mower explained this was due to operant conditioning

  Behaviour is repeated if it is reinforced

  Negative reinforcement - an individual acts to avoid unpleasant situation ( fear )

  So the avoidance behaviour is repeated , phobia is maintained