Behavioral Activation ─ Distinctive Features

Behavioral activation theory indicates that much clinically relevant human behavior is a function of positive reinforcement, and that when positive reinforcement is reduced, lost, or chronically low depression results. Behavioral activation encourages clients to obtain and nurture the skills that allow them to establish and maintain contact with diverse, stable sources of positive reinforcement. This creates a life of meaning, value and purpose.
Behavioral Activation: Distinctive Features clarifies the fundamental theoretical and practical features of behavioral activation, integrating various techniques into a unified whole that is efficient and effective. The book includes numerous case examples and transcribed segments from therapy sessions and outlines behavioral concepts using straightforward terms and examples so that all therapists can see the utility and practical value of this approach.
This book will provide essential guidance for students and new therapists, as well as more experienced clinicians wanting to know more about what makes behavioral activation a distinct form of cognitive behavior therapy.

Jonathan W. Kanter is Assistant Professor and Clinic Coordinator at the Department of Psychology, and a Research Scholar at the Center for Addictions and Behavioral Health, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Andrew M. Busch is currently a pre-doctoral intern at the Alpert Medical School of Brown University and a researcher in the Psychosocial Research Program at Butler Hospital in Providence, Rhode Island.
Laura C. Rusch is an advanced graduate student at the Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Part I: The Distinctive Theoretical Features of Behavioral Activation. A Distinctive History. A Distinct Definition of Human Behavior. Distinct Terminology. A Distinct Philosophy and Theory. The Distinct Behavioral ABC Model. The Ubiquity of Positive Reinforcement. The Meaning of Life. Depression and Positive Reinforcement. The Ubiquity of Negative Reinforcement. The Role of Punishment. An (Almost) Complete Behavioral Model of Depression. The Role of Cognition. The Role of Insight. Activation and Acceptance. Part II: The Distinctive Practical Features of Behavioral Activation. A Distinct Structure. The Initial Treatment Rationale. Activity Monitoring. Values Assessment. Simple Activation. The Importance of Homework. Functional Assessment. Post-it Notes and Other Stimulus Control Procedures. Skills Training. Contingency Management. Mindful Valued Activation. Ending Therapy. Thinking Functionally about Suicide and Medication. The Therapeutic Relationship in BA. A Distinct Flexible Framework: Adaptations for Minorities. The Promise of BA.