Michel Hersen

Effects of modeling on components of assertive behavior

Abstract Unassertive psychiatric patients matched on age, diagnosis, and self-reported assertiveness were assigned to one of three conditions, with 10 subjects in each group: (1) Modeling, (2) Practice-Control, (3) Test-Retest. All subjects were videotaped (Pre- and Post- Test) while responding to five interpersonal situations requiring assertive responses. Subjects in the modeling condition were exposed to a videotaped model (four sessions) trained to respond assertively to the same five interpersonal situations. Each modeling session was followed by one practice session to the five scenes. Practice-control subjects were given four separate practice sessions to the five scenes but no modeling. Test-retest subjects recieved neither modeling nor practice. Pre- and Post-Test responces for all subjects were rated by judges on eight behaviorally defined components of assertiveness. Analyses of variance for difference scores indicated that the Modeling group improved significantly on five of the eight components of assertiveness. No differences were found between the Practice-Control and Test-Retest groups.

Self-assessment of fear

Self-assessment measures of fear are reviewed in terms of their reliability, validity, factorial structure, sex and population differences, and correlations with other personality scales. The need for long-term reliability studies for different population samples tapping a variety of age groups is indicated. Needless duplication of measurement is apparent, and the validation of shortened schedules based on factorial analyses is warranted. Conflicting evidence is presented as to the predictive validity of fear schedules when overt indices of fear are used as criterial. The fear construct is examined in terms of its tripartite structure (verbal, motor, physiological), and questions are raised as to which of the components is to be utilized as the criterion measure. Suggestions for further research are made with respect to assessing comparative degree of change in verbal, motor, and physiological indices in the successful modification of fear.

Music feedback in the treatment of tension headache: An experimental case study

Abstract The effects of bio-feedback (music presented contingent on low EMG levels) on tension headaches was evaluated during inpatient and outpatient phases. Dependent variables included frequency and intensity of headaches in both phases, and anti-headache medication as needed in the outpatient phase. Results indicated that the patients headache levels and medication requirements were low during bio-feedback but increased when bio-feedback was terminated. Anti-tension exercises involving deep breathing and stretching of neck muscles introduced during a clinical follow-up were associated with a sustained decrease in headaches.

Effects of token economy on neurotic depression: An experimental analysis

The hypothesis that work behaviors on a token economy program wouldbe incompatible with emission of depressive behaviors was examined in an experimental single case design in three neurotically depressed patients. The results supported the hypothesis in that observable depression was markedly diminished during the token reinforcement condition. By contrast, increases in depression were noted during baseline phases. It is argued that token economy work activities facilitated greater social stimulation, thus increasing the likehihood of elicitation and reinforcement of target behaviors under study.

Effects of videotape and instructional feedback on nonverbal marital interaction: An analog study

The separate and combined effects of videotape feedback and focused instructions were examined in an analog study consisting of four experimental single case designs. The results indicate that videotape feedback in the absence of instructions effected a slight increase in nonverbal interactions of married couples. Focused instructions led to marked changes in the target behavior of looking. A combination of videotape feedback and focused instructions was not significantly more potent than instructions alone. However, the combined design led to an increase in the related behavior of smiling.

Measurement and modification of spasmodic torticollis: An experimental analysis

The use of a horizontal grid placed over a videotape television monitor proved to be a precise method of defining and measuring incidence of torticollis. Effects of instructions and negative feedback in modifying percentage of spasmodic torticollis were also examined in an experimental single case design. Application of negative feedback resulted in a significant decrease in percentage of torticollis per ten minute session. Instructions, however, did not diminish percentage of torticollis, but appeared to result in greater variability of performance.