The behavioural approach states that we learn phobias through a two process model. The phobia is acquired through classical conditioning, and maintained through operant conditioning
Classical conditioning
Phobias can be acquired through associative learning. The process of classical conditioning can explain how we learn to associate something we do not fear (neutral stimulus)
Operant conditioning
Avoid the feared object reduces anxiety, therefore the avoidance is negative reinforcement. We then continue behaviour that is negatively reinforced, therefore we continue to avoid the object/person
