Comparison of Social Learning Theory and Cognitive Behavioral Theory

Comparison of Social Learning Theory and Cognitive Behavioral Theory

Introduction

A psycho-therapeutic approach that helps in addressing maladaptive behaviors, cognitive contents and processes with the support of various goal oriented strategies, dysfunctional emotions and explicit systematic processes and procedures is known as Cognitive behavioral therapy. This theory is also referred to as cognitive therapy and behavior therapy, as it is based on cognitive and behavioral research and principles. The cognitive behavior theory can be used in treatment of various conditions found in individuals such as anxiety, mood, substance abuse, psychotic, personality, tic and eating disorders (Gruber, 2012). Special programs are arranged for treatment of each of these disorders and continuous feedback and history profiling of an individual under consideration need to be maintained accordingly.

On the other hand, social learning theory is an approach that helps people in learning within the social context. Observational learning and modeling are the most commonly used tools in application of social learning theory. Children and people learn from the environment in which they live in, so if the environment is based on positive norms, values, traditions and rituals than they will have positive learning from the environment, otherwise vice versa.

Discussion

In cognitive behavioral theory the symptom based diagnoses and evidence based treatment can be helpful in managing the healthcare and motivational needs of an individual. Every individual have some special needs and wants that can help the treatment providers in management of motivational process. Cognitive behavioral therapy helps an individual in recovering from all kinds of psychological disorders (Clark & Beck, 2010). While Social learning theory's main emphasis is on environment, as it considers that an individual learns more effectively from his or her environment. The environment is considered as the most important factor that helps in effective implementation ...