POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN TEACHING

FAKULTI:
FACULTY OF EDUCATION

SEMESTER/TAHUN:
2/2023

KOD KURSUS:
HPGD2103

TAJUK KURSUS:
GUIDANCE AND COUNSELLING

No Matrikulasi CGS03026726
No Kad Pengenalan: 981125-10-5254
No Telefon: 018-4713005
Emel: khugesh@oum.edu.my
Pusat Pembelajaran: Shah Alam Learning Centre
 Table of Content

Bil Content Page Number

1 Table of Content 1

2 Part 1, Question 1 (A) 2-4

3 Part 1, Question 1 (B) 4-7

4 Part 1, Question 2 8-10

5 Part 2, Online Class Participation Forum 11-13

1
PART 1
QUESTION 1: ESSAY.
A)

In the field of counselling, behaviourist counselling takes centre stage as a notable and practical
approach deeply ingrained in observable behaviours and the impactful influence of
environmental factors (Candiri, 2023). At its core, there's operant conditioning, a dynamic
learning process intricately shaping behaviours based on their consequences, either strengthening
or diminishing them. This essay delves into the nuanced principles of operant conditioning
within the realm of behaviourist counselling, shedding light on its practical application in
navigating and addressing the diverse challenges of parenting in encouraging the son to complete
his homework. Within the confines of this discourse, we will explore a prevalent concern for
many parents, to create a positive environment that could encourage the child to complete his
homework. This entails delving into the intricacies of operant conditioning, a fundamental facet
of behaviourist counselling. As we explore this, our focal point will be a specific behaviour the
parent is eager to modify to cultivate a healthier parent-child dynamic (Costa, 2017).

2
 Behaviourist counselling, closely associated with influential figures like B.F. Skinner,
revolves around the foundational notion that behaviour directly stems from environmental
stimuli and reinforcement. This distinctive approach diverges from other therapeutic
methodologies that delve into the intricacies of introspection or unconscious processes. Instead,
behaviourist counselling squarely places its emphasis on observable behaviours and the external
factors influencing them (Mphaphuli, 2023). Operant conditioning, the driving force behind
behaviourist counselling, intricately engages in the learning process, systematically reinforcing
or attenuating behaviours based on their consequences. Core principles encompass positive
reinforcement, a method of rewarding desired behaviours; negative reinforcement, involving the
removal of an unpleasant stimulus to reinforce behaviour; punishment for undesirable
behaviours; and extinction, a process that withholds reinforcement for unwanted behaviours,
ultimately leading to their diminishment (Mphaphuli, 2023).

When faced with parenting challenges, a common concern often revolves around
motivating a child to complete homework (Mphaphuli, 2023). The strategic application of
operant conditioning principles provides a structured and effective approach to address this
prevalent issue. Implementing a system of positive reinforcement emerges as a potent motivator
for children. By incorporating rewards such as extended playtime, favourite snacks, or additional
screen time for completing homework, parents establish a positive and reinforcing connection
with the desired behaviour. Moreover, this not only motivates task completion but also fosters a
sense of accomplishment and positive association with academic responsibilities (Costa, 2017).
In addition to positive reinforcement, negative reinforcement becomes a relevant strategy in the
context of homework completion. This involves the removal of an unpleasant stimulus when the
child consistently completes assignments on time. By eliminating a restriction or a chore, parents
create a direct link between homework completion and the removal of undesirable tasks, further
strengthening the child's motivation to fulfil their responsibilities promptly (Candiri, 2023).

While positive reinforcement proves instrumental in encouraging desired behaviour, it is

equally essential to address procrastination through judicious consequences. Implementing mild
and consistent punishments, such as the temporary loss of privileges like screen time for delayed

3
homework completion, acts as a deterrent and effectively reinforces the importance of
completing tasks in a timely manner (Mphaphuli, 2023). Children often resort to attention-
seeking behaviours as a strategic means to divert attention from tasks like homework (Costa,
2017). Employing the extinction principle becomes paramount in such instances. By withholding
reinforcement, specifically attention, for these undesired behaviours, parents can gradually
diminish their frequency over time. This strategic use of extinction encourages the child to shift
focus and engage more actively in the task at hand.

The practicality and effectiveness of behavioural counselling in the realm of parenting

challenges become resoundingly evident through its emphasis on observable behaviours, the
establishment of clear cause-and-effect relationships, and the provision of tangible strategies for
behaviour modification. Empowering parents with these concrete tools allows for proactive and
intentional shaping of a child's behaviour in a manner that is both positive and constructive.
Positive reinforcement, as a pivotal aspect of behaviourist counselling, extends its influence
beyond the completion of homework (Costa, 2017). Parents can seamlessly apply similar
strategies to encourage a spectrum of positive behaviours, thus fostering a supportive and
constructive parent-child relationship that transcends academic responsibilities. Moreover, while
behaviourist counselling equips parents with practical tools, it is not immune to criticism. Some
argue that it oversimplifies the complexity of human behaviour, neglecting the influence of
internal states and cognitive processes (Yılmaz, 2023). However, proponents counter such claims
by asserting that the focused attention on observable behaviours renders interventions more
accessible and measurable, facilitating practical application in real-life parenting situations.

In conclusion, behaviourist counselling, anchored in the fundamental principles of

operant conditioning, emerges as a comprehensive and practical approach to addressing the
challenges inherent in parenting. The nuanced understanding of how behaviours are learned and
modified through consequences empowers parents to actively shape their child's behaviour in a
positive and intentional manner. The application of operant conditioning, particularly in the
context of homework completion, exemplifies the versatility and effectiveness of behavioural
counselling in addressing specific behavioural concerns. As the landscape of parenting continues
to evolve, the principles of behaviourism stand as a valuable and adaptable framework for

4
navigating the complexities of child behaviour and fostering a positive and supportive family
environment.

B)
Primarily, the hands-on and interactive nature of role play offers clients a unique opportunity to
immerse themselves in new behaviours within a controlled environment. This experiential
approach engages individuals in simulated scenarios, allowing them to experiment with various
responses (Yılmaz, 2023). For example, a student working on overcoming social anxiety during
an English public speaking competition can practise initiating conversations, handling social
interactions, and managing anxiety through role play. This practical exploration facilitates a
profound understanding of actions and reactions, expediting the learning process and fostering
the development of effective coping mechanisms.

Besides that, role play is a potent instrument for refining interpersonal skills, extending
beyond behavioural rehearsal. In a secure setting, the student can rehearse and enhance
communication styles, assertiveness, and conflict resolution techniques. For instance, a student
struggling with expressing opinions in the classroom can practise assertive communication
through role play, instilling confidence and practical skills for real-life situations, contributing
significantly to overall personal development (Yılmaz, 2023). Apart from these fundamental
advantages, role play proves effective in addressing a range of psychological challenges. In
phobia treatment, students can engage in virtual scenarios that gradually expose them to their
fears in a controlled and supportive environment, enabling them to confront and manage phobias
progressively. The versatility of role play in addressing various concerns underscores its
significance as a versatile and impactful counselling tool (Candiri, 2023).

In a hypothetical situation where a student grapples with social anxiety, the use of role
play becomes a valuable tool. Through this medium, the individual can actively participate in
practising and initiating conversations, managing social interactions, and addressing the
underlying anxieties linked to social encounters. This hands-on exploration enables the student to
delve into the complexities of their actions and reactions within a secure and controlled
environment. By simulating these scenarios, clients acquire a profound understanding of their

5
behaviours, expediting the learning process and nurturing the development of effective coping
mechanisms (Yılmaz, 2023). The interactive aspect of role play provides a distinctive advantage,
allowing students to actively experiment with various responses within a risk-free setting. This
enables them to explore and test new behaviours, progressively building confidence and
competence in navigating challenging situations (Yılmaz, 2023). For a student striving to
overcome social anxiety, engaging in simulated conversations and social interactions offers a
secure space to confront fears, acquire adaptive responses, and cultivate a sense of mastery over
anxiety-inducing scenarios.

Shifting to assertive practice, another influential technique within behavioural theories, it

offers a robust approach to cultivating assertiveness skills. Assertiveness is crucial for effective
communication, self-expression, and boundary-setting. This technique resonates for its
practicality in addressing communication challenges and navigating intricate interpersonal
relationships. By encouraging clients to assert themselves appropriately, assertive practice instils
a sense of self-efficacy, enabling individuals to confidently navigate social situations and assert
their rights without adopting passive or aggressive behaviours. Consider a scenario where a
student struggles with participating in a school group task, due to fear of being judged by her
peers. This student struggles to share and express her ideas or thoughts during discussion.
Through assertive practice, they can learn to express their needs and preferences assertively,
fostering healthier and more balanced relationships, enhancing communication skills, and
contributing to improved self-esteem and overall well-being (Costa, 2017).

In terms of behavioural intervention, token economy stands out for its systematic and
structured approach to reinforcement. Tokens or symbolic rewards are being used in this
technique to reinforce a behaviour. This is done by offering the students with clear incentives for
a positive change. This is frequently being adapted in a diverse setting including schools to
motivate and facilitate behaviour modification. Students can earn tokens for adhering to
treatment plans, maintaining abstinence, or achieving specific milestones. These tokens can be
exchanged for rewards or privileges, creating a tangible and motivating system that reinforces
positive behaviours. The visual representation of progress through tokens serves as a concrete

6
and measurable means to track achievements, providing clients with a sense of accomplishment
and motivation to continue their journey toward behavioural change (Yılmaz, 2023).

On a different note, self-management, encapsulating self-monitoring and self-reinforcement,

resonates due to its emphasis on autonomy and empowerment. This technique empowers
individuals to actively participate in their behaviour change process. Self-monitoring involves
the systematic observation and recording of one's behaviours, thoughts, and emotions, fostering
heightened self-awareness (Yılmaz, 2023). For instance, a student working on managing stress
can use self-monitoring to track stress triggers, emotional responses, and coping strategies. This
self-awareness becomes a powerful tool for identifying patterns and implementing targeted
interventions. Concurrently, self-reinforcement allows clients to reward themselves for attaining
predefined goals, cultivating intrinsic motivation that enhances the likelihood of sustained
behaviour change as individuals internalise the rewards, rendering the process more personally
meaningful (Candiri, 2023).
In conclusion, the four techniques role play, assertive practice, token economy, and self-
management emerge as invaluable tools within the counselling realm, each offering distinct
advantages. The optimal choice depends on individual preferences, students needs, and the
specific context of the counselling intervention. The resonant technique should align seamlessly
with the client's goals, learning style, and the nature of the challenges they aim to address,
ensuring a personalised and effective approach to behaviour change. Elaborating on these
techniques provides a comprehensive understanding of their applications, reinforcing their
significance in promoting positive and lasting behavioural transformations.

Reference
Candiri, B., Arıkan, A. S., & Çolak, S. C. (2023). Balance and Physical Activity in Children with
Neurodevelopmental Disorders. In Özgür Yayınları eBooks
https://doi.org/10.58830/ozgur.pub305.c1255
Costa, D. A. (2017). Transforming Traumatised Children within NSW Department of Education
Schools: One School Counsellor’s Model for Practise – REWIRE. Children Australia,
42(2), 113–126. https://doi.org/10.1017/cha.2017.14
Mphaphuli, L. K. (2023). The impact of dysfunctional families on the mental health of children.
In IntechOpen eBooks. https://doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.110565

7
 Muir, A. (2023). Creating a workflow that aims to respond to the unique needs of young people
in Emergency Supports in Aotearoa New Zealand. https://doi.org/10.34074/thes.6131
Sari, S., & Mirici, İ. H. (2023). The Impact Of Action- Oriented Approach On Teaching English
To Students With Mild Specific Language Learning Difficulties. Necmettin Erbakan
ÜNiversitesi Ahmet KeleşOğLu EğItim FaküLtesi Dergisi.
https://doi.org/10.38151/akef.2023.110
Sommers-Falanagan, J., & Sommers-Falanagan,R. (2018) Counselling and Psychotherapy
Theories in the Context and Practice: Skills, Strategies and Techniques. Wiley.
Wenzel,A. (2017). Innovations in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Strategic Interventions for
Creative Practice. Taylor & Francis.
Yılmaz, M. F., & Türküm, A. S. (2023). The Mediating Role of Self-Esteem, Perceived Social
Support, and Loneliness in the Relationship between Shyness and Subjective Well-Being
of University Students. In Özgür Yayınları eBooks.
https://doi.org/10.58830/ozgur.pub303.c1374

Question 2

Person-Centred Counselling, pioneered by Carl Rogers, represents a humanistic approach that

centres therapeutic efforts around the client (Davis, 2018). By integrating real-life examples and
insights from reputable sources, the essay seeks to illuminate the active application of these
principles in the therapeutic process, fostering a nurturing and empathetic environment for
clients.

At the core of Person-Centred Therapy lies the principle of unconditional positive regard
(UPR), advocating for the therapist's unwavering acceptance and support for the student/ client
without judgement (Davis, 2018). This foundational concept is grounded in the belief that
fostering an environment of unconditional positive regard facilitates self-exploration and growth.
In practical terms, therapists practising UPR extend genuine warmth, acceptance, and
understanding, irrespective of the client's thoughts, feelings, or actions. For instance, when
dealing with a student grappling with self-esteem issues expressing feelings of worthlessness, a
counsellor employing UPR responds with empathy, accentuating acceptance and understanding

8
without judgement, an essential element in creating a secure space for open self-exploration
(Yılmaz, 2023).

Person-Centred Therapy elevates empathy beyond mere understanding, emphasising the

therapist's profound connection with the student's subjective experience. Through empathetic
listening and reflective responses, the counsellor aims to grasp the student's emotions and
perspectives, cultivating a robust therapeutic alliance. Consider a scenario where a student
recounts a traumatic experience. An empathetic counsellor not only comprehends the details but
also conveys emotional understanding of the student's pain through reflective statements. This
empathetic approach validates the student's emotions, contributing to a supportive therapeutic
relationship (Davis, 2018).

Congruence, synonymous with genuineness, underscores the counsellor's authenticity and

transparency. In this approach, a counsellor could openly share their feelings and reactions
within appropriate boundaries, fostering an environment of trust and mutual understanding.
When a counsellor is congruent, the clients can sense the authenticity, nurturing a more genuine
and trusting therapeutic relationship. For instance, a congruent counsellor might openly
acknowledge their emotional reactions to a client's disclosure, contributing to transparency and
strengthening the therapeutic alliance (Davis, 2018).

The practical application of Person-Centred Therapy principles is multifaceted,

encompassing the creation of a supportive environment, enhancement of client self-exploration,
and strengthening of the therapeutic alliance. Unconditional positive regard is foundational to
establishing a non-judgmental and accepting space for students. Research by Muir et al. (2023)
suggests that genuine acceptance encourages students to engage in self-exploration and express
their emotions freely. Empathy, as a catalyst for self-exploration, plays a crucial role in
encouraging students to delve into their thoughts and emotions. Sari et al. (2023) emphasises that
empathetic responses contribute to a therapeutic environment conducive to personal discovery
and growth. The congruence of the counsellor would help to contribute to an authentic and
trusting therapeutic alliance. Wang et al. (2023) found that a genuine and congruent therapist-

9
client relationship is positively correlated with positive therapeutic outcomes, highlighting the
significance of authenticity in the therapeutic process.

In addition to these principles, the therapeutic process also involves active listening. As a
counsellor it is important to not only boldly listen but instead understand the underlying
emotions and meaning. This active listening, combined with empathy, creates a space where
clients feel truly heard and understood, further fostering the therapeutic relationship (Davis,
2018). The principles of Person-Centred Therapy extend beyond the individual therapy session
to the overall therapeutic environment. The physical space, the demeanour of the therapist, and
the overall atmosphere contribute to the client's sense of safety and comfort. For example, a
jovial counsellor in school who is always happy, approachable and has a good sense to create a
secure and welcoming environment contributes to the creation of a secure environment,
enhancing the effectiveness of the session.

The application of these principles is dynamic and adaptable to the diverse needs of
clients. For instance, in working with a client who struggles with trust issues, the therapist's
consistent demonstration of unconditional positive regard and congruence becomes especially
crucial (Davis, 2018). The therapist's unwavering acceptance and authenticity contribute to
building trust over time. Moreover, the ongoing development of research in the field continues to
validate and refine these principles, providing counsellors with a rich and evolving
understanding of how to best apply them in various counselling sessions. As the landscape of
mental health evolves, the enduring significance of Person-Centred Therapy principles remains
evident in their ability to form the foundation of a therapeutic alliance that promotes healing and
growth (Costa, 2017).

In conclusion, Person-Centred Counselling, with its principles of unconditional positive

regard, empathy, and congruence, offers a distinctive and potent therapeutic approach. By
creating an atmosphere of acceptance, understanding, and authenticity, counsellors should be
able to empower their clients to explore their inner worlds, fostering self-discovery and growth.
The real-life examples and insights from reputable sources underscore the practical application

10
of these principles, emphasising their essential role in creating a supportive and transformative
therapeutic experience.

Question 2- References
Costa, D. A. (2017). Transforming Traumatised Children within NSW Department of Education
Schools: One School Counsellor’s Model for Practise – REWIRE. Children Australia,
42(2), 113–126. https://doi.org/10.1017/cha.2017.14
Davis, H., & Spurr, P. (2018). Parent Counselling: an evaluation of a community child mental
health service. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 39(3), 365–376.
https://doi.org/10.1017/s002196309700214x
Muir, A. (2023). Creating a workflow that aims to respond to the unique needs of young people
in Emergency Supports in Aotearoa New Zealand. https://doi.org/10.34074/thes.6131
Murphy,D. (2019). Person-centred experiential counselling for depression: A manual for Training
and Practice. SAGE Publication.
Sari, S., & Mirici, İ. H. (2023). The Impact Of Action- Oriented Approach On Teaching English
To Students With Mild Specific Language Learning Difficulties. Necmettin Erbakan
ÜNiversitesi Ahmet KeleşOğLu EğItim FaküLtesi Dergisi.
https://doi.org/10.38151/akef.2023.110
Wang, Q. (2023). The Effect of Parenting practices on creativity: Mediating role of psychological
resilience. Psychology Research and Behavior Management, Volume 16, 4501–4514.
https://doi.org/10.2147/prbm.s436370
Yılmaz, M. F., & Türküm, A. S. (2023). The Mediating Role of Self-Esteem, Perceived Social
Support, and Loneliness in the Relationship between Shyness and Subjective Well-Being
of University Students. In Özgür Yayınları eBooks.
https://doi.org/10.58830/ozgur.pub303.c1374

PART 2
ONLINE CLASS PARTICIPATION FORUM

11
12
13