AO3: Behavioural exp evaluations

• Explain the research for the two process model

  Watson and Raynor (1920) conducted research into classical conditioning on a nine month old boy known as 'Little Albert'. They presented him with a neutral stimulus of a white rat which produced no response. They then presented him with the ns + and a loud noise (a UCR) which produces a conditoned response of fear. Through continous pairing an association is formed, ns becomes a cs which produces a cr
• What does the findings of the case study show

  The findings of little albert supports the behavioural explanation for phobias, as little albert displayed fear in the presence of other white, fluffy stimuli (e.g santa claus, fluffy white coats, rabbits) supporting the suggestion that phobias can be developed through classical conditioning.
• What is the practical application of the two-process model (think avoidance)

  The behavioural explanation has practical application in how to treat phobias. As it teaches that avoidance reinforces an individuals phobia due to a reduction in anxiety, one can suggest that if avoidance behaviours are prevented, the phobia can be treated and cured, suggesting the behavioural explanation to have helpful application in treating and helping individuals with phobias.
• Weakness: overly-simplified, role of cognition


  However, the behavioural explanation ignores the role of cognitive factors. Ignoring the role of cognitive factors is problematic, as irrational thinking is a key feature of phobias. Whilst it does explain avoidance behaviours it fails to explain phobic cognitions and therefore can be seen as a limited explanation for phobias
• Jongh et al (Dentists!)

  Further research supporting the link between stimulus and association, was found by Jongh et al, who found that 73% of individuals with a fear of going to the dentist, had endured a traumatic experience. This greatly contrasts to the control group with low-dental anxiety, where only 21% had a traumatic experience. This confirms association between the stimulus (Dentristy) and the unconditioned response (pain), leads to the development of a phobia