Question

1. Consider extinction and differential reinforcement. The question is this: If you had a child client that was engaging in fist pounding behavior as an attention getting response (adults would reliably attend to the child when this behavior occurred), what procedure would you use? Describe each component (i.e. extinction as well as the reinforcement procedure). Briefly describe why you would choose this procedure.)

2. Consider behavioral skills training procedures. The question is this: You are working with an adult client that is developing anxiety because they cannot assert themselves with others at work. Whenever they are asked to do something they feel compelled to do it because they simply cannot say no. Describe the procedure you would use to teach this person assertiveness skills (i.e. saying “I am sorry but I am very busy this weekend and cannot come into work.”) Describe each step of the procedure remembering to include ALL the components of Behavioral training skills.

Answer 1

1.When the child client is engaging in fist pounding behaviour as an attention getting response ,The positive reinforcement will work.Telling the kid that if he will not do the particular behaviour he would be rewarded with a chocolate. For getting the chocolate child client can stop the particular response.The conditional stimulus will help in the extinction of unconditional response leading to conditional response.I would choose this in my therapy for extinction purpose because Usually with kids reinforcement and token economy works where rewards are given and kid are more attracted towards rewards.

2.While working with an adult client where he is feeling anxiety as he cannot assert himself with others at work.To make him assertive DEAR MAN of Interpersonal effectiveness could be used.

D-describe the current situation, i.e He is busy

E-Express the feeling and opinions,ie.I want to enjoy my weekend.

A-Assert what you want ie.Be confident as you don't want to come to work.Be Firm at your decisions.

R-Reinforce which means explaining the consequences i.e If he comes to work he will not be able to work effectively because he really needed a break.

This way a client can Assert his decisions.