ABSTRACT
Cognitive-behavioural work refers to the systematic alteration of behaviour by increasing, decreasing or maintaining it. Cognitive-behavioural learning theory follows on logically from modelling or imitative learning. Rational-emotive and cognitive-behavioural approaches can be used with great success with carers, relatives and people significant to the person with dementia. For instance, doubt is expressed whether a person with dementia can learn new material and new ways of acting, and also whether it is reasonable to consider attempting to change a person’s behaviour by operant means if this is the case. An individual’s reaction to and experience of dementia and capacity for new learning is varied. The chapter suggests that behavioural approaches are viable and useful for people with dementia. Behavioural approaches are ethical, economical and effective. These characteristics may, in themselves, help persuade practitioners of their viability across a range of client groups, including people with dementia.
