Mikey Is Four Years Old and Has Begun Acting Out

question 47

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Mikey is four years old and has begun acting out. Every time he throws a tantrum, his mother rushes over to console him. In analyzing this behavior, what sort of factors would most interest a behaviorist? On what factors would a cognitive psychologist using the transcendental method focus? What conclusions will each psychologist reach?

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Definitions:

Catastrophic Thinking

An irrational thought process wherein an individual believes that something is far worse than it actually is, often leading to heightened anxiety.

Rational Emotive Therapy

A cognitive-behavioral approach to therapy that emphasizes changing irrational beliefs to alter emotional and behavioral responses.

Irrational Assumptions

Beliefs that are based on incorrect inferences or lack evidence, often leading to negative thinking patterns and behaviors.

Belief Systems

Complex frameworks through which individuals interpret and understand the world around them, often encompassing religion, politics, and personal values.