A new treatment for maladaptive approach behavior (“covert sensitization”) is described. The term “covert” is used because neither the undesirable stimulus nor the aversive stimulus is actually presented. These stimuli are presented in imagination only. The word “sensitization” is used because the purpose of the procedure is to build up an avoidance response to the undesirable stimulus. A description and rationale for covert sensitization is presented. Treatment of alcoholism, obesity, homosexuality, and delinquent behavior by covert sensitization is also described.
This paper describes a Reinforcement Survey Schedule (RSS) that is intended to be useful in a variety of therapy, training, and research applications. The RSS has four sections: (a) reinforcers that can be presented in palpable, facsimile or imaginary form; (b) reinforcers that can be presented only in facsimile or imaginary form; (c) situational contexts that are reinforcing; and (d) a survey of frequently-occurring daily behaviors. The rationale is discussed for private practice, institutional practice and research, and action implications are outlined. Illustrative data are presented.
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