Similarly, we can use an Adlerian approach in assessing Christina’s feelings of failure early in life, to lead into focusing on the theories of B.F. Skinner and how they relate to her behaviors. Skinner believed that human behavior was shaped by the consequences of such behavior, specifically involving the environment in which the behavior occurs (Friedman & Schustack, 2012). Despite the negative connotation that normally corresponds with the term “consequences”, when discussing the theories of Skinner the term simply refers to the aftermath of the behavior whether it be a positive or negative result. Edward Thorndike, who felt that if a behavior resulted in pleasure, the behavior would then be strengthened and the opposite would occur if the
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She has low self-esteem and experiences feelings of failure, which she counteracts by “fixing” or aiding her under functioning romantic partners. In turn, the co-dependency of her partners only furthers and exemplifies her own co-dependency. Accordingly, it can be expected that because this mutual co-dependency in relationships has satisfied some of her internal conflict and provides a sense of fulfillment, the behavior is reinforced. The higher frequency of dysfunctional relationships, strengthens the desire to seek out these types of romances through reinforcement which – as discussed – is a behavioral theory presented by Skinner.
Putting aside the unhealthy dynamics of Christina’s present relationship, her needs have been satisfied through her co-dependence and thus she likely does not see her behavior as problematic; it’s been continually reinforced and ultimately shaped her personality. Tying this theory back to Christina’s inferiority complex and Adler, her dysfunction has been shaped and strengthened by the gratification resulting from taking care of her previous and current partner(s), therefore suppressing her feelings of inferiority and minimizing her aggression
She has low self-esteem and experiences feelings of failure, which she counteracts by “fixing” or aiding her under functioning romantic partners. In turn, the co-dependency of her partners only furthers and exemplifies her own co-dependency. Accordingly, it can be expected that because this mutual co-dependency in relationships has satisfied some of her internal conflict and provides a sense of fulfillment, the behavior is reinforced. The higher frequency of dysfunctional relationships, strengthens the desire to seek out these types of romances through reinforcement which – as discussed – is a behavioral theory presented by Skinner.
Putting aside the unhealthy dynamics of Christina’s present relationship, her needs have been satisfied through her co-dependence and thus she likely does not see her behavior as problematic; it’s been continually reinforced and ultimately shaped her personality. Tying this theory back to Christina’s inferiority complex and Adler, her dysfunction has been shaped and strengthened by the gratification resulting from taking care of her previous and current partner(s), therefore suppressing her feelings of inferiority and minimizing her aggression