A03

• limitation-environmentally reductionist

  • focuses on stimulus response connections
  • ignores biological explanations eg neurotransmitter imbalances and Seligman which proposes ‘ancient fears’ are genetically inherited phobias from our ancestors for survival and reproduction purposes e.g., fire or deep water 
  • thus limited and inconclusive- more holistic approach and how different factors interact= correct diagnosis for treatment
• strength- good explanatory power

  • leading to practical benefits and treatment eg flooding and systematic desensitisation
  • exposure to phobic stimulus breaks negative reinforced loop of avoidance-reducing anxiety
  • increase qol, return to work , benefit economy
• ethical issues- little albert case study

  • exposed to emotional harm, against BPS code of ethics
  • case study, small sample, not representative so cannot be generalised
  • findings from case study applied to treatment eg flooding could be seen as unethical due to high levels of fear and anxiety