The behavioural model

 This model suggests that learning maladaptive behavior via conditioning or observational learning causes mental disorders.

 This model offers people with mental disorders hope, in that it implies their behavior can be changed – anything that is learned can be unlearned using the same techniques.

 The approach is most suited to explaining and treating those disorders that emphasis external behavior, e.g. phobias.

 Ethically, there are advantages such as the lack of blame attached to a person with a metal disorder, however it has been criticized in that:

        -It is somewhat over simplistic and ignores individual differences.

        -It s based on animal research.

        -The treatments developed from this model can be painful and manipulative (e.g. aversion therapy).