AN APPRAISAL OF PRINCIPLES OF BEHAVIOUR MODIFICATION AS PANACEA TO THE CHALLENGES OF STRESS

Joachin Udechukwu Amobi

Abstract


Behaviour Modification is the scientific application of psychological principles especially principles of learning so as to change undesirable behaviours to more desirable behaviours. This is because learning itself is a relatively permanent change in behavioural potentialities as a result of constant interaction with the environment. As a psychological concept, behaviour modification can be used to correct and prevent abnormal behaviour through the use of techniques such as reinforcement, aversive stimulus, modeling, systematic desensitization and relaxation method. Stress on the other hand, is an unpleasant state of emotional and physiological arousal that human being experience in situations that they view as challenging and/or threatening to their lives. Stress, if not well managed can lead to serious health problems such as anxiety disorder, mental illness, heart disease, hypertension (high blood pressure), stomach cramp, suicide, heart diseases and at times life threatening injuries. This paper strongly believes that the systematic application of psychological principles of behaviour modification is capable of reducing stress to the barest minimum and can lead to more harmonious healthful living and form the basis for better coping strategy. In conclusion, causes, prevention and coping strategies were recommended.  Keywords: Behaviour Modification, Stress, Stressors

Full Text:

PDF

References


Egbule, J.F. (2009). Methodology of Guidance and Counselling: Professional manual for counselling psychologists. Benin City; Goodnews Express Communication.

Essuman, J.K, Nwaogu, P.O., and Nwachukwu, V.C. (1990). Principles and Techniques of Behaviour Modification Owerri; Int’l Universities Press.

Fieldman, R.S. (2005). Understanding Psychology U.S.A: McGraw-Hill Higher Education

Mazza, J.J. (2002). The relationship between post traumatic stress symptomatology and suicidal behaviour in school-based adolescents. Suicide & life-threatening behaviour, 30, 91-103.

Nwoye, A. (1990). Counselling Psychology for Africa. Jos: Fab Education Books.

Ogbuatu, P.O. and Maduka, T.O. (2014). Heart Diseases Onitsha: Pet-oo Global (world).

Ott, S.P., Metzger, L.J, & Pitman, R.K. (2002). Psychology, Physiology of post traumatic stress disorder. Psychiatric clinics of North America: Special issue: Recent advances in the study of biological alterations in post traumatic stress disorders, 25, 271-293.

Osuafor, T.O.K. (1997). A compendium of common medical diseases for the education of the public. Enugu: Delta Publications (Nigeria) Limited.

Ozer, E.J; Best, S.R., & Lipsey, T.L. (2003). Predictors of posttraumatic stress disorder and symptoms in adults: a meta-analysis. Psychological Bulletin, 129, 52-73.

Selye, H. (1993). History of the stress concept. In L. Goldberger & S. Breznitz (eds), Handbook of stress: Theoretical and Clinical Aspects (2nd ed.). New York: Free Press.

Wilson, J.P. & Keane, T.M. (eds) (1996). Assessing Psychological trauma and PTSD. New York: Guilford.


Refbacks

  • There are currently no refbacks.