Wilson, 1997

Submitted by Kelly G. Wilson on August 6, 2009 - 3:13pm
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APA Citation: 

Wilson, K. G. (1997). Science and Treatment Development: Lessons from the history of behavior therapy. Behavior Therapy, 28, 547-558.

Type of Publication: 
ACT: Conceptual
Contextual Methodology & Scientific Strategy
Abstract: 

The behavior therapy movement has led psychology in the development of empirically-validated treatment approaches. Three features of the behavior therapy movement distinguish it from other applied approaches and have contributed to its success: (a) defining problems in terms of identifiable behavioral excesses and deficits, (b) derivation of treatment strategies from the findings of basic psychological science, and (c) rigorous examination of treatment efficacy and mechanisms of action. Each of the three defining features are discussed as central to the continued success of behavior therapy. Recent years have witnessed some drift from this tradition. Arguments for adherence to this formula will be provided. Examples of adherence and drift will be discussed.

Comments: 
In this article, I walk through the argument against focus on the treatment of syndromes and against a brute-force empirical attack on the devlopment and validation of new treatments. I argue for theory-driven research and for a rich iterative and interactive relationship between basic and applied research.
Key Words: 
science, treatment development, theory driven research, the 500 year problem, history of behavior therapy, functional diagnoses