The behavioural/cognitive behavioural approach
Learning Objectives
After considering this resource, you should understand the framework for, and theory underpinning, the behavioural/cognitive behavioural approach, as well as its advantages and disadvantages for practice.
In use since the 1970s, the behavioural/cognitive behavioural approach is an increasingly popular intervention in social work practice. Although it was originally a reaction against the psychodynamic form of intervention, its basic principles are derived from psychodynamic concepts: the conscious and the unconscious processes of the mind, as well as the view that behaviour is caused and shaped by the environment, not the past.
The approach puts particular emphasis on the conscious process and the principle that behaviour is learnt through a preference of condoning pleasure and the avoidance of pain. Both the behavioural and the cognitive behavioural approach propose behaviour is learnt from birth and can be unlearnt, hence a heavy emphasis on learning theories-particularly indoctrination and conditioning.
The following quick guide, authored by Marie Joseph, explores the psychodynamic approach more fully, including the theory underlying this intervention and its advantages and disadvantages.
Reflective Questions
- How can you include the service user when planning for this approach?
- In what situations do you think this approach would be particularly unsuitable? Why is that? What approaches to intervention may be better suited?
- A criticism of this approach is that it is derived to support socially acceptable forms of behaviour. Do you agree with this statement?
- What are the main advantages of being able to measure the outcomes of this approach, for both the service user and the social worker?