Applications of Learning & Behavior Theories Lesson 2

What is Psychology? n A scientific discipline l The scientific study of behavior and cognitive processes l Association for Psychological Science n A helping profession l The application of psychological principles to directly benefit people l American Psychological Association ~

Goals of Psychology? Describe, Explain, Predict, & Change Behavior & Cognitive Processes

Types of Learning n Nonassociative learning l Modification of simple reflexes l  or  reflexive response n Associative learning l linking previously unrelated events l new responses in familiar situations l familiar responses in new situations ~

Associative Learning n Operant (or Instrumental) learning l Adjusting behaviors to reach a goal l “operate” on environment n Respondent (Pavlovian or Classical) learning l Involuntary responses that motivate behaviors l “respond” to environment n Both interconnected ~

Applied Psychology n Use same principles, different vocabularies n Behavior Modification l Changing desirable or undesirable behaviors via operant learning principles n Behavior Therapy l Treatment of psychological problems l Via Respondent &/or Operant learning principles ~

Behavior Modification Applications n  desirable,  undesirable behaviors n Training Animals n Child rearing l Potty training, Helping with chores l  misbehavior,  bed-wetting n Education l Classroom management l Academic learning n Self-improvement ~

Applications: Severe Problems n Developmental Disabilities l Community living l Right to education n Childhood Autism l Lovaas Method l  social behavior & language,  self-stimulatory behaviors l Early intervention  50% success n Schizophrenia l  social behavior, grooming ~

Behavior Therapy n Treatment of psychological disorders l CBT – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy n Respondent learning-related disorders l Conditioned Emotional Responses - CER n Phobias n Post-traumatic stress-disorder n Panic Disorder l With agoraphobia ~

Behavior Therapy n Operant-related disorders n Eating Disorders l Anorexia nervosa; Bulimia l Obesity n Learned Helplessness l Related to depression n Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder n Substance abuse & addiction ~

Other Applications n Organizational Behavior n Business n Health & Wellness n Community Behavior ~

Goals of Course n Better self-understanding l our behavior, emotions & thoughts n Tools for self-improvement l how to promote desirable behavior l discourage undesirable n Tools for influencing others l therapy l  pro-social,  anti-social behavior ~