COMD 4510 Luterman Chapter 2: Contemporary Theories of Counseling

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts from the lecture on contemporary theories of counseling, outlining major theories, important figures, and foundational principles.

Behaviorism

A theory of counseling focused on observable behaviors and the effects of the environment on those behaviors.

Classical Conditioning

A learning process that involves pairing a neutral stimulus with an unconditioned stimulus to elicit a response, as studied by Ivan Pavlov and John B. Watson.

Operant Conditioning

A learning process developed by B.F. Skinner where behaviors are influenced by reinforcement or punishment from the environment.

Positive Reinforcement

The addition of a desirable stimulus after a behavior to increase the likelihood of that behavior occurring again.

Negative Reinforcement

The removal of an aversive stimulus as a result of a behavior, which increases the likelihood of that behavior being repeated.

Punishment

The application of an aversive stimulus or removal of a positive stimulus to decrease a behavior.

Humanistic Counseling

A counseling approach emphasizing personal growth and self-actualization through client-centered therapy, primarily developed by Abraham Maslow and Carl Rogers.

Self-Actualization

The innate drive to grow and fulfill one's potential, according to Maslow.

Unconditional Positive Regard

A key condition for therapeutic change characterized by nonjudgmental acceptance and support of the client.

Empathetic Listening

A therapeutic practice where the clinician deeply understands the client’s feelings and perspective.

Existentialism

A philosophical approach in counseling that addresses the individual's experience of existence, freedom, loneliness, and meaninglessness.

Meaninglessness

The philosophical concept that life lacks inherent meaning, leading individuals to construct their own sense of purpose.

Gestalt Therapy

A therapy approach that emphasizes understanding the present moment and the whole experience of the client rather than focusing on past events.

Cognitive Therapy

A therapeutic approach that focuses on identifying and changing irrational beliefs to improve emotional well-being, advanced by Albert Ellis.

Irrational Beliefs

Beliefs that are not based on reality and can lead to emotional disorders, often challenged in cognitive therapy.

Client-Centered Therapy

A humanistic therapy approach emphasizing the importance of the client's perspective and the therapeutic relationship for fostering growth.

Therapeutic Relationship

The connection and rapport between the therapist and the client, deemed essential for effective therapy.