Question

Cheryl is painfully shy. According to the behavioral perspective, the best way to deal with her "abnormal" behavior is to a. Treat the underlying physical problem. b. Use the principles of learning theory to modify her shy behavior. c. Express a great deal of caring. d. Uncover her negative past experiences through hypnosis.

Short answer

The correct answer is option B. The behavioral perspective would use principles of learning theory to modify Cheryl's shy behavior. Using these principles, therapists could encourage Cheryl to modify her behavior through a variety of techniques such as positive reinforcement or exposure therapy.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Behavioral Perspective

From a behavioral perspective perspective, psychologists focus on observable behaviors and the mechanisms we use to learn these behaviors. It includes concepts such as conditioning, reinforcement, and punishment.

Selecting the Right Approach for Cheryl

In the given scenario, Cheryl's shyness is seen as an abnormal behavior. As behavioral therapists often use the principles of learning theory to modify patients' behavior, they would most likely apply the same principle to Cheryl's scenario.

Eliminating Incorrect Options

Option A is incorrect as it suggests a physical problem, but shyness is a behavior. Option C suggests expressing affection, but this may not necessarily change the behavior. Option D suggests using hypnosis to uncover past experiences, but this approach is more aligned with psychodynamic therapy, not behavioral.

Key concepts

Learning Theory

Learning theory is a cornerstone of behavioral psychology. It emphasizes the understanding of how behaviors are acquired and modified. In Cheryl's case, her shyness can be viewed through the lens of learning theory.

Learning theory is divided into several key components:

• Classical Conditioning: Originally introduced by Ivan Pavlov, this is the association of a neutral stimulus with an unconditioned stimulus to elicit a conditioned response. For example, if Cheryl feels anxious during social interactions (unconditioned stimulus), she may begin to associate social situations with these feelings (conditioned response).
• Operant Conditioning: This concept, described by B.F. Skinner, involves modifying behavior through reinforcement or punishment. If Cheryl avoids social situations and her shyness inadvertently gets reinforced (e.g., avoiding a stressful event), operant conditioning plays a role.
• Observational Learning: This involves learning behaviors by watching others, as highlighted by Albert Bandura. If Cheryl observed others withdrawing in similar situations, she might have learned this behavior indirectly.

Learning theory suggests that by understanding and altering the conditions and factors that lead to specific behaviors, it's possible to modify those behaviors effectively.

Behavior Modification

Behavior modification involves systematically applying learning theory principles to change undesirable behaviors. Cheryl's shyness can be effectively addressed using behavior modification techniques.

The essence of behavior modification is to replace undesirable behaviors with more positive ones. Here are some steps involved:

• Identification: First, identify the specific behavior to change. In Cheryl's case, it's her shyness in social settings.
• Setting Goals: Establish clear, achievable goals for behavior change, such as initiating conversations or participating in group activities.
• Implementing Strategies: Use strategies like positive reinforcement, exposure to social situations in a controlled manner, or modeling to encourage new behaviors.
• Monitoring Progress: Regularly assess her behavior to determine if the interventions are effective and adjust strategies as necessary.

Behavior modification is proactive and pragmatic, utilizing systematic approaches to elicit measurable changes and ultimately improve an individual's quality of life.

Reinforcement

Reinforcement is a critical process in behavioral psychology, particularly within the framework of operant conditioning. It involves using rewards or consequences to increase or decrease the likelihood of repeating a behavior.

There are two primary types of reinforcement:

• Positive Reinforcement: This entails presenting a rewarding stimulus after a desired behavior. For Cheryl, receiving praise or rewards after she successfully engages in social interaction can reinforce her willingness to try again.
• Negative Reinforcement: This involves removing an unpleasant stimulus when the desired behavior occurs. If Cheryl experiences stress when she avoids talking, helping her feel relief when she participates can serve as negative reinforcement.

Reinforcement aims to strengthen desired behaviors and reduce the frequency of undesirable ones. It's essential to apply reinforcement consistently for it to effectively encourage change. For Cheryl, reinforcement can gradually help curb her shyness and boost her confidence in social situations.