Classical Conditioning
Classical conditioning is a process by which stimuli become associated with responses. This information handout describes key principles of Classical Conditioning and how they are understood within cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
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Introduction & Theoretical Background
Classical conditioning is a critical factor in both human and animal psychology. In cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) classical conditioning can be viewed as a transdiagnostic mechanism (maintenance factor) with client difficulties often the result of conditioned responses. Once formulated in this way it can be seen that many difficulties may respond to a process whereby they are extinguished.
This worksheet includes a simple one-page description of classical conditioning and why it is important in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Examples of common difficulties to which this might apply include phobias or other anxieties, which respond to exposure-based (i.e. extinction) treatments.
Therapist Guidance
This is a Psychology Tools information handout. Suggested uses include:
- Client handout - use as a psychoeducation resource
- Discussion point - use to provoke a discussion and explore client beliefs
- Therapist learning tool - improve your familiarity with a psychological construct
- Teaching resource - use as a learning tool during training
References And Further Reading
- Pavlov, I. P. (1897/1902). The work of the digestive glands. London: Griffin.
- Watson, J. B. (1913). Psychology as the behaviorist views it. Psychological Review, 20, 158–177
- Watson, J. B., & Rayner, R. (1920). Conditioned emotional reactions. Journal of Experimental Psychology, 3(1), pp. 1–14.