Which statement best represents behavioral therapy?

• A. It aims to modify dysfunctional thinking patterns to influence emotions and behavior.
• B. It encourages clients to achieve self-actualization by exploring their feelings in a supportive environment.
• C. It emphasizes exploring unconscious conflicts and childhood experiences.
• D. It focuses on changing maladaptive behaviors through techniques such as reinforcement and conditioning.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the core focus of behavioral therapy, which is primarily on observable behaviors rather than internal thoughts or feelings.
2. Understand that behavioral therapy uses principles from learning theory, such as reinforcement and conditioning, to change maladaptive behaviors.
3. Compare the given statements to see which one aligns with this focus on behavior modification through learning techniques.
4. Recognize that statements emphasizing changing thinking patterns, exploring feelings, or unconscious conflicts relate to other therapeutic approaches like cognitive therapy, humanistic therapy, or psychoanalysis.
5. Conclude that the statement highlighting the use of reinforcement and conditioning to change behaviors best represents behavioral therapy.