ABSTRACT
Reinforcement Contingencies Reinforcement is a dominant procedural term referred to in the treatment methods described in this text. The reason for applying certain components of learning theory, such as reinforcement, and particularly for adapting the model of logical positivism as exemplified by Skinner (1938, 1953), is that they are so adaptable to the experimental-clinical approach. The experimental-clinical treatment model parallels Skinner's experimental approach in which theory is de-emphasized and experimental method determines what facts of behavior are accepted as predictable. The experimental-clinical model promotes an empirical approach to the patient, with an underlying presumption that whatever behavioral facts are learned today may be elaborated upon in the future. Such an approach seems logical at the current stage of psychological research, since it restricts one from adopting a rigid theoretical position by promoting a constantly changing and searching approach to treatment problems. The experimental-clinical method is not limited to learning theory; it is suitable for testing the efficacy of other theories used to establish treatment techniques. It is recognized that other theories and treatment approaches, particularly psychoanalysis, will have difficulty in allowing the imposition of observable dependent variables and precise application of specific treatment techniques.
