Field theory and behavior modification in rehabilitation: Tools for twin tasks.

Abstract

Two theoretical points of view that have aided psychologists in making productive, practical contributions to the rehabilitation of the disabled are Lewinian Field Theory and Skinnerian Behavior Theory. That is a paradox because on superficial analysis, the two theories appear to conflict with each other.Lewinians are concerned with understanding the phenomenological complexities of a whole situation-a complex person interacting with a complex environment-or Life Space of the person. Behavior is a function of that Life Space because a person behaves in accordance with his perception of his situation. Perceptions, of course, include hopes, values, needs, and desires, which are just as "real" as any tangible variables. Lewinians, therefore, are highly concerned with what the person thinks, feels, and perceives his situation to be. Moreover, because behavior is purposeful and goal directed, the understanding and prediction of behavior requires close study of the dynamic relationships among the many personal and environmental variables that interact in a situation. The outcome of such study permits the Lewinian to "map the field" and to approach a major goal; namely, to understand the psychological situation of the client.The Skinnerian, on the other hand, is concerned with understanding the functional relationship between a single response, its antecedent stimulus, and a consequent reinforcer or punisher. A person may be viewed as a "black box," in which the behavior that comes out can be controlled by manipulating what

Psychological adjustment to spinal cord injury: A literature review, 1950–1977.

“…Feld (1961) andHohmann (1975) presented almost identical five-stage models consisting of (a) denial, (b) depression characterized by withdrawal and internalized hostility, (c) depression characterized by externalized hostility, (d) a reaction against dependency and finally, (e) a reconstitution of pretraumatic personality. Models which are organized into somewhat different stages but which cover essentially similar reactions have been outlined by Cohn (1961), Kerr andThompson (1972), Peter (1975) and Seybold (1974). Dunn (1970) offered the only empirical test of a stage model.…”

“…Vash (1975) used both published work of others and her own experiences in developing a theoretical framework. Meyerson's (1971) integration of a behavior modification technology on a field theoretical base, and Kerr's (1976) further elaboration of that model have influenced many. Consideration of these more general works fosters a sense of the lawfulness of adjustment processes in all disabling conditions.…”

The distinctiveness of rehabilitation psychology.

“…Meyerson (1955Meyerson ( /1971) continued the field-theoretical tradition. He and Kerr added elements of behavior modification as a technology, but not as an explanation of behavior (Kerr, 1976;Meyerson, 1971, p. 64;Meyerson, Kerr, & Michael, 1967). Others have also employed behavioristic methods, with instructive results (Asken, 1976).…”