Chapter 8: Behavior Therapy

   Behavior Therapy is focused upon human behavior rather than traits. It can generally be called Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy although some behaviorist disagree with the Cognitive part. There are 3 main approaches to behavior therapy: Classical conditioning, Operant conditioning, and observational learning. Classical conditioning is best connected to Pavlov. In this method behavior is believed to be 'wired in' for evolutionary reasons, through classical conditioning this behavior can be 'rewired' to respond to different stimuli. Operant conditioning was developed by B.F.Skinner. This model states that behavior operates in the environment to create consequences or reinforcements. Of these reinforcements there are positive, which would increase behavior likelihood when somersetting good is presented. With negative reinforcements behavior occurs as a result of bad stimuli the last model is observational learning which was developed by Bandura. This model states that behavior is learned through observing the behavior performed by other.
   On specific observational learning may relate to students in various Counseling Theories and Techniques Online Class Web Pages ways. This may be through the simplest of student learning material in classes as expected or cultural such as freshman or international students. A college is a culture of it's own in the this way new student will need to observe the behaviors of others, upperclassmen, in order to learn how to act appropriately in the new environment to best fit in. Similar can be stated for international students as coming from a culture, where behaviors may differ from those that are socially acceptable in the U.S. will need to observe, learn, and mimic in order to adapt and integrate. Problems may arise as observed behavior may not be necessarily considered 'good' behavior (drinking, illegal substances etc.). It's in these cases that as professionals we may need to get involved.