| Abstract: | This paper is a critical review of the studies that have applied behavioral techniques in the treatment of school phobia. After a brief theoretical discussion, this work proceeds to note the conspicuous absence of any studies designed to assess either the relative efficacy of behavior therapy in comparison to other types of therapy or the different effects of various behavioral treatments. An in-depth analysis of reported case studies dichotomized into those using classical conditioning elements and those using operant learning ones reveals that both approaches indicate success. However, some blurring between treatment modalities, both theoretically and empirically, is noted, thus bringing into question the precision of estimating the efficacy of treatments of different approaches. Suggestions for future research focus on both large scale studies and the need to apply distinct treatments firmly allied to theoretical models. |
