The Constructional Approach to Behavior Analysis

CET

Constructional Exposure Therapy (CET), a novel approach to exposure therapy rooted in behavior analysis and Goldiamond’s constructional framework. The procedures comprising CET were pioneered by Dr. Jesús Rosales-Ruiz and his students at the University of North Texas (see for example Snider, 2007; Rentfro, 2012). Unlike traditional exposure therapies that focus on eliminating unwanted responses, CET emphasizes building alternative behaviors that provide similar or greater benefits to the individual. This method utilizes nonlinear contingency analysis (NCA) to understand the function of problematic behaviors and employs a gradual exposure process where calm behavior in the presence of aversive stimuli is reinforced by the removal of that stimulus, offering the patient choice and control. 

Our research group is currently investigating the use of CET for a range of medical procedures. Check back here for updates.

  • Abdel‐Jalil, A., Baldwin, J. N., & Leaf, J. B. (2024). Exposure‐based treatments for fear and reactivity to medical procedures: A systematic review of the literature with implications for research and practice. Behavioral Interventions, 39(3), e2010.
  • Katz, M., & Rosales‐Ruiz, J. (2022). Constructional fear treatment: teaching fearful shelter dogs to approach and interact with a novel person. Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior, 118(2), 278-291.
  • Layng, T. V. J., & Abdel‐Jalil, A. (2022). Toward a constructional exposure therapy. Advances in Cognitive Therapy, Fall, 8–11.
  • Rentfro, A. D. (2012). Feral to friendly (F2F): A constructional fear treatment for domestic cats using a negative reinforcement shaping procedure in a home setting [Master’s thesis, University of North Texas].
  • Snider, K. S. (2007). A constructional canine aggression treatment: Using a negative reinforcement shaping procedure with dogs in home and community settings [Master’s the- sis, University of North Texas].
  • Snider, K. (2018). Turning Fierce Dogs Friendly: Using Constructional Aggression Treatment to RehabilitateAggressive and Reactive Dogs. Fox Chapel Publishing.