The application of psychology to everyday life

The study by Saavedra and Silverman shows how therapy based on the
principles of classical conditioning can be used to treat specific phobias.
A phobia is a distressing mental health condition which can negatively
affect people’s quality of life. Methods such as disgust imagery
exposure are used in clinical practice to challenge the fearful
associations with phobic stimuli. This piece of research demonstrates
the potential long-term improvement that can result from exposure
therapies.

Nature versus nurture

The theory underlying the acquisition and treatment of phobias in the
study by Silverman and Saavedra is classical conditioning. Classical
conditioning relies solely on a nurture-based explanation of learning.
Phobias are not considered innate or genetically inherited. Instead they
are considered to be products of negative experiences with previously
neutral stimuli. Treatment is based on the same principles; that
subsequent neutral or positive experiences with the phobic stimuli
(along with cognitive therapy) can reduce fearful responses.

The use of children in psychological research

In the study by Silverman and Saavedra, the child participant (aged
nine) was asked for consent. In accordance with ethical guidelines, his
mother also consented to his participation. This study was potentially
highly distressing, as it involved both real and imagined exposure to
frightening stimuli. Furthermore, the boy could be considered
vulnerable as his specific phobia is a recognised mental health
condition. However, the intention of the researchers was to treat his
phobia and improve his quality of life, which may justify the temporary
distress caused during treatment.

The study by Saavedra and Silverman aimed to investigate the role of

evaluative learning in treating a specific phobia of buttons. They used a
case study of a young boy to explore the origin of his phobia, and
treated him using both reinforcement and imagery exposure therapies.
He responded best to the imagery exposure technique which relates
closely to the thoughts and feelings associated with learned responses.
This was a unique piece of research which gained both qualitative and
quantitative data about the participant’s progress through therapy. It
has practical applications for the treatment of specific phobias, e.g.
through imagery exposure relating to disgust.