How is behavior therapy different than psychoanalysis? Behavior therapy involves free association and dream analysis, while psychoanalysis focuses on the use of classical conditioning to change patterns of thinking. In psychoanalysis, a therapist employs principles of learning to help clients change undesirable behaviors, while behavior therapy involves digging deeply into one’s unconscious. Psychoanalysis involves using free association to work through repressed desires, while behavior therapy focuses on how undesirable behaviors are predicted unconsciously, in our dreams. In behavior therapy, a therapist employs principles of learning to help clients change undesirable behaviors, while psychoanalysis involves digging deeply into one’s unconscious.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: In behavior therapy, a therapist employs principles of learning to help clients change undesirable behaviors, while psychoanalysis involves digging deeply into one’s unconscious.
Explanation:
Behavior therapy and psychoanalysis are distinct therapeutic approaches that differ significantly in their methods and theoretical foundations.
Behavior Therapy is based on the principles of learning, particularly classical conditioning and operant conditioning. It focuses on changing maladaptive behaviors through reinforcement, punishment, and other techniques rooted in behavioral psychology. Behavior therapists believe that most behaviors are learned and can be unlearned or replaced with more adaptive behaviors. The primary focus is on observable behavior, and therapy involves practical strategies like reinforcement, behavior modification, exposure therapy, and systematic desensitization to treat issues such as phobias, anxiety, and compulsions. Behavior therapy does not generally delve into unconscious motives or repressed memories. Rather, it focuses on understanding how behaviors are learned and how they can be unlearned or modified.
Psychoanalysis, on the other hand, is rooted in Freudian theory and emphasizes the exploration of the unconscious mind. Psychoanalysts believe that many psychological problems are caused by repressed memories, unresolved conflicts, and unconscious desires. Techniques like free association, where the patient says whatever comes to mind without censorship, and dream analysis are central to uncovering these hidden thoughts and feelings. The therapist helps the client explore these unconscious processes, often tracing them back to early childhood experiences and repressed desires. The goal is to bring these unconscious issues to consciousness, allowing the individual to gain insight into their behaviors and emotions, which is believed to lead to healing.
In summary, behavior therapy is action-oriented, focusing on observable behaviors and their modification, while psychoanalysis is insight-oriented, focusing on unconscious thoughts and unresolved conflicts.