Problem: Which of these two theories best applies to the vingette below?
Behaviorism OR Operant & Classical Conditioning
Susan is a 35-year-old mother of three young children (aged 10, 8 and 4). She lives with her children and her partner in what she describes as a 'good and supportive' relationship. Prior to the birth of her youngest child Susan worked as a payroll officer for a charity. She had liked her work because she felt she was helping people, but she stopped working when she found herself too busy with the demands of three young children. She hopes to return to work when they are a little older. Susan came to therapy seeking support to deal with anxiety and depression, which she described as 'severe'. This problem had begun 12 months earlier after the death of her mother, whom she loved very much. Since her mother died Susan says she has felt sad all the time, and has difficulty sleeping, no energy and no interest in the activities that normally give her pleasure, such as volunteering at her children's school, shopping and spending time with her family and friends. Her father is in poor health but lives nearby and visits her often. Susan has become increasingly anxious over the last several months, sometimes calling her kids' schools multiple times per day to check in on their welfare.