Comparison of Modeling and Cognitive Rehearsal in Reduction of Snake Avoidance

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Abstract
The increased interest in cognitive activity among behavioral clinicians has led to the development of new treatment strategies incorporating these variables, such as cognitive rehearsal. The present study was designed to evaluate the relative contributions of cognitive rehearsal and modeling in the modification of phobic fear reactions. 60 female college students, previously screened for high levels of anxiety and avoidance behavior toward snakes, participated in a 19-step behavioral avoidance test. Subjects were divided into six groups: a no-modeling condition, a modeling only condition, two cognitive rehearsal only conditions (coping and distraction), and two cognitive rehearsal plus modeling conditions. Principal dependent variables were number of behavioral steps completed, degree of self-reported anxiety, and subjects' self-efficacy expectations. Between-group differences on these variables, although in the expected direction, did not reach statistical significance. A significant correlation of .83 was obtained between self-efficacy expectations and approach behavior.