Learning Theories in Behaviour Modification

• Token economies


  A form of behavioural modification using specific types of reinforcers to influence behaviour change
• Primary reinforcers


  Tokens received for desired behaviours in a token economy
• Secondary reinforcers


  Actual or real rewards that tokens can be exchanged for
• Token economy in prison

  • Tokens or points for good behaviour can be cashed in for cigarettes or extra time outside in the exercise yard
• Tokens can be withdrawn and fines can be imposed for inappropriate behaviour
• Systematic desensitisation


  Behaviour therapy for specific phobias involving gradual and repeated exposure to phobic stimuli
• Goal of systematic desensitisation

  Help the individual cope with fearful objects or situations rather than avoid or escape them
• Systematic desensitisation was first developed by Joseph Wolpe in 1958
• Joseph Wolpe successfully treated a client with agoraphobia
• Classical conditioning principles


  Used in systematic desensitisation to unlearn the connection between anxiety and a specific object or situation
• Three-step process of systematic desensitisation

  1. Teaching relaxation technique

  2. Breaking down anxiety-arousing object into fear hierarchy

  3. Systematic pairing of items with relaxation
• Step 1 of systematic desensitisation

  Teaching the individual a relaxation technique that can decrease the physiological symptoms of anxiety
• Step 2 of systematic desensitisation

  Breaking down the anxiety-arousing object into a fear hierarchy
• Fear hierarchy


  A sequence arranged from least to most anxiety-producing
• Individuals construct a fear hierarchy with steps increasing in difficulty rated on a 100-point scale
• Step 3 of systematic desensitisation


  Systematic, graduated pairing of items in the hierarchy with relaxation
• Sessions continue until the individual can respond to the most fear-producing situation in the hierarchy