Roots and branches of behavioral and cognitive practice

Experimental psychology has contributed many empirical concepts and paradigms to behavioral theory and practice. While not all behavior therapy techniques can be traced from exact experimental paradigms, a general guiding framework is provided by concepts and methodology derived from behavioral research and theories. In this paper, two concepts are discussed in relation to modern behavior therapy: (1) environmental-behavioral relationship and (2) response probability, with emphasis on the work of Tolman, Hull, Skinner and Brunswik. Current studies of "cognitive behavior therapy" are discussed with reference to methodology and techniques. All but one of the studies purporting to compare behavior therapy with cognitive behavior therapy actually mixed regular behavioral techniques with cognitive practices. All of the results can be explained on ordinary behavioral principles. Finally the behavioral basis of attitudes and perceptions is discussed in the light of work by Festinger, Bem, Taylor, Jacobson, Razran and others; and cognitive variables are found to fit very well within a purely behavioral framework. Our concepts and methodology need to be sharpened, rather than clouded, if behavior therapy is to make headway against the traditionalist bulwarks of the psychiatric community.