Jim was bitten by a goose when he was a child. Now, as an adult when he goes to ponds where geese flock, he experiences fear and leaves. His anxiety subsides once he leaves. This illustrates the ________________ theory of phobias.

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The two-factor theory of phobias, proposed by Mowrer, combines classical and operant conditioning. Jim's initial fear response to being bitten (classical conditioning) is maintained because leaving the situation reduces fear (operant conditioning), reinforcing the avoidance behavior.

Jim Was Bitten by a Goose When He Was a Child