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Using the Threat Probability Task to Assess Anxiety and Fear During Uncertain and Certain Threat
Published on: September 12, 2014
Anxiety and its treatment: promoting science-based practice
Jeffrey M Lohr1, Scott O Lilienfeld, Gerald M Rosen
1Department of Psychology, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 727201, United States. jlohr@uark.edu
Abstract:
In this article we analyze ways that psychological science can inform the treatment of anxiety disorders. We focus on experimental psychopathology research to describe the structure of anxiety and the functions of danger, safety, predictability and controllability in contributing to disorder. We then address science-based practice in terms of principles of change and the benefits from the self-corrective nature of science, contrasting this form of practice with treatments that are not grounded in basic learning theory. Models for dissemination and implementation of science-based practices are described and related to practitioner attitudes regarding scientific evidence. Finally, we consider practice implications when treatments are, and are not, based on the informative role of clinical psychological science.
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