A behavioral therapist would explain the hypochondriac's "sickness behavior" as
A) being reinforced by the sympathy and attention he or she receives.
B) a reflection of the loss of meaning he or she feels regarding life.
C) distorted thinking and perceptions regarding the world.
D) the result of unconscious conflicts between the subparts of the personality.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A behavioral therapist would view the hypochondriac's behavior as being reinforced by the sympathy and attention he or she receives. This means that the person may continue to believe they are sick because they are receiving attention and sympathy from others for their supposed illness. The behavior is seen as being maintained by external factors, rather than internal processes such as unconscious conflicts or distorted thinking.

A Behavioral Therapist Would Explain the Hypochondriac's "Sickness Behavior" as