Behavior Modification

Behavior modification is being used to treat drug addiction by applying aspects of the learning theory, and establishing ways to eliminate drug use as a positive reinforcer and withdrawal as a negative reinforce (Abadinsky, 2014). This form of treatment attempts to search for new positive reinforcers for drug users (Abadinsky, 2014). Since the learning theory is associated with behavior, it’s important that reinforcers are available strictly after a certain behavior is displayed in order for behavior modification to work (Abadinsky, 2014). Behavior can be altered by using an aversive stimulation, which is an instance where a drug addict who just did their dose of drugs is quickly injected with a muscle relaxer, called Anectine (Abadinsky, 2014).