EPS 211 GROUP 12
NAMES REG NO
IRENE WAIRIMU E37/7175/2022
NJERI NG’ANG’A E37/5261/2022
JACKLINE NYAMBURA E37/7277/2022
MAUREEN OMONCHE E37/2770/2022
BAZIL OGOLLA E37/2431/2022
WYCLIFFE AWIDHI E37/1319/2022
LAWRENCE ONYANGO E37/7114/2022
HALLINGTONE E37/2856/2022
OKOTH
MUNYWOKI JUNIOR E37/2641/2022
MESHACK KIMUTAI E37/2734/2022
Explain the Behavioural theories of Counselling in terms of (a) Key
tenets (b) Causes of maladjustment and c) Role of the counsellor and
counselling techniques
INTRODUCTION
Behavioral theories of counseling focus on the idea that
The individual’s problematic behaviors and emotional
issues are learned and can be modified through targeted
intervention:
Key tenets
Observable Behavior: Behavioral counseling emphasizes the observation and
analysis of overt behaviors, rather than focusing on unconscious processes.
Learning Principles: It is grounded in the principles of learning, including
classical conditioning, operant conditioning, and social learning theory.
Environmental Influence: Behavior is seen as being shaped by the individual’s
environment, including reinforcement, punishment, and modeling.
Assessment and Measurement: Behavioral counselors use systematic
assessment tools and measurement techniques to identify target behaviors and
track progress.
• Focus on Change: The primary goal is to modify maladaptive behaviors and
replace them with more adaptive ones through structured interventions.
Causes of maladjustment
Learned Behaviors: Maladjustment often arises from learned behaviors
acquired through past experiences, including reinforcement,
punishment, and observational learning.
Lack of Adaptive Skills: Individuals may exhibit maladaptive
behaviors due to a deficit in coping skills or problem-solving abilities,
making it difficult to adapt to various situations.
• Environmental Influences: Family dynamics, social interactions,
cultural norms, and other environmental factors can contribute to the
development and maintenance of maladaptive behaviors.
Role of counselor
Active Participation: The counselor takes an active role in the counseling process,
collaborating with the client to identify target behaviors and develop treatment plans.
Behavioral Assessment: Assessment tools such as behavior charts, self-monitoring, and
functional analysis are used to identify patterns of behavior and potential triggers.
Behavioral Interventions: Techniques such as reinforcement, shaping, modeling,
systematic desensitization, and behavioral rehearsal are employed to modify behaviors.
Skill Building: Counselors may teach clients new skills, such as relaxation techniques,
communication skills, and problem-solving strategies, to help them cope with
challenging situations.
• Goal Setting and Monitoring: Clients and counselors work together to set specific,
measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals, and progress is
regularly monitored and evaluated.
Counseling techniques
• Behavior modification: it may involve setting goals, using positive reinforcement for
desired behaviors and removing reinforcement for undesired behaviors
• Systematic desensitization: it is used to help clients overcome phobias and anxieties
by gradually exposing them to the feared object or situations in a controlled or safe
manner.
• Exposure therapy: clients are exposed to their fears or triggers In a controlled
environment to help them confront and overcome their anxieties.
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): This approach combines cognitive techniques
(identifying and changing negative thought patterns) with behavioral techniques to
help clients change behaviors that contribute to their problems.
• Token economy: This involves using a system of rewards (tokens) to reinforce
positive behaviors, such as in a classroom setting or a mental health facility.
REFERENCES
Bates, B. (2023). Learning Theories Simplified:… and how to apply
them to teaching.
Wright, J. H., Brown, G. K., Thase, M. E., & Basco, M. R. (2017).
Learning cognitive-behavior therapy: An illustrated guide. American
Psychiatric Pub.
Sommers-Flanagan, J., & Sommers-Flanagan, R. (2018). Counseling and
psychotherapy theories in context and practice: Skills, strategies, and
techniques. John Wiley & Sons.
• Sapp, M. (2004). Cognitive-behavioral theories of counseling:
Traditional and nontraditional approaches. Charles C Thomas Publisher.
