The cognitive-behavioral approach to therapy stems from behaviorism, which is based on the concept that behavior is sustained by its resulting ramifications. Results that encourage behavior are referred to as reinforcers and consequences that negate behaviors are punishers. When approaching family relationships, behavior therapists rely on the theory of social exchange, which states that people try to minimize costs while maximizing rewards in relationships.
However, behavior therapists acknowledge that people are more than their behaviors; one’s emotions and cognitions play an important role in what it means to be a human being. A central component of the cognitive-behavioral approach is that one responds to another person in a specific
However, behavior therapists acknowledge that people are more than their behaviors; one’s emotions and cognitions play an important role in what it means to be a human being. A central component of the cognitive-behavioral approach is that one responds to another person in a specific