Abstract
M.A.
As compared with psychoanalytic and other psychotherapies, behaviour therapy
appears to have three distinct advantages. First of all, the treatment approach is
precise. The target behaviours to be modified are specified, the methods to be used
are clearly delineated, and the results can be readily evaluated (Marks, 1982). Second,
the use of explicit learning principles is a sound basis for effective interventions as a
result of their demonstrated scientific validity (Kazdin & Wilson, 1978). Third, the
economy of time and costs is quite good. Not surprisingly, then, the overall outcomes
achieved with behaviour therapy compare favourably with those of other approaches
(Smith, Glass & Miller, 1980). Behaviour therapy usually achieves results in a short
period of time because it is generally directed to specific symptoms, leading to faster
relief of an individual's distress and to lower financial costs. In addition, more people
can be treated by a given therapist.