Phobias

Running head: PHOBIAS AND ADDICTIONS

Phobias and Addictions

PSY/300

Abstract

This essay examines phobias and addictions, how phobias can be developed through operant conditioning and how addictions can be developed through operant conditioning. This essay also examines the distinctions between classical and operant condition and examines “extinction” as it relates to psychological theory and how extinction is achieved in classical and operant

conditioning.

Phobias and Addictions

Numerous psychologists believe that behaviors are learned through conditioning. These conditionings are known as operant, which is based on individual’s response to outside stimuli, and classical conditioning, which is based on the theory that people’s reactions to situations are learned behaviors. Phobias and Addictions can develop when an individual’s ability to function within societal normality’s or adapt to societal complexities are diminished. Addiction is a condition in which the body must have a drug to avoid physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms.

Phobias and classical conditioning

Phobias are persistent and irrational fears of specific objects, activities, or situations that are excessive and unreasonable, given the reality of the threat. Even though phobias are based on irrational fears, they often cause serious problems in a person’s life. Phobias can result in a person being unable to perform their job, participate in any type of social functions or totally withdraw from society. There are numerous physical symptoms associated with phobias similar to those experienced with chronic anxiety attacks.

Phobias are developed through classical conditioning when one stimulus is paired with another stimulus which obscures or changes the normal reflexive response to the original stimulus. This is evidenced by the fact that, while the sight of a snake may not initially cause undo anxiety, if someone pairs the...