If you are someone who would like to help a loved one change their relationship with substances or to make any behavioral change, there are four essential tools you can learn.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom first, helping through understanding or thinking about issues of addiction differently using the science we now have available. Second, helping by taking care of yourself as you need to be able to survive and thrive while trying to help.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom third, helping through words or learning positive communication strategies that shift the conversation from negative to positive. And fourth, helping with actions which are usually using positive reinforcement strategies.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom

As you approach the holidays and face lots of holiday moments with family and your loved one, it can be helpful to think about ways to improve communication patterns.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom one way to improve things with your loved one is to learn to avoid “conversational traps”. All of us fall into “traps” at times during conversations…ESPECIALLY when the conversation is about an emotionally charged topic.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom these “traps” are automatic “default settings” that are often emotional responses to not feeling heard or collaborated with. When communication has NOT been going well, these triggers are more likely, and when your loved one is being secretive, angry, argumentative, dishonest etc, it can be very EASY to fall into any one of these traps in an attempt to “break through” to them.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom

The labeling trap: these are conversations that involve the use of labels (like “addict” or “loser”) and over generalizations like “you are total denial”.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom they tend to turn conversations into arguments because the person on the receiving end of the label is likely to disagree with you and will become very invested in showing you how you are wrong.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom labels…in general…back people into corners.

Carrie wilkens, phd carrie wilkens, phd, is the co-founder and clinical director of the center for motivation and change in NYC and in the berkshires.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom she co-authored an award-winning book, beyond addiction: how science and kindness help people change with drs. Foote and kosanke. Together they also contributed to a user-friendly workbook for parents: the 20 minute guide: A guide for parents about how to help their child change their substance use.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom in collaboration with the partnership for drug-free kids, dr. Wilkens and the CMC team is developing a national parent training program (the parent support network) to provide parent coaches to families in need of support through a free hotline.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom prior to these ventures, dr. Wilkens was the project director on a large federally-funded substance abuse and mental health services administration (SAMHSA) grant examining the effectiveness of motivational interventions in addressing the problems associated with binge drinking among college students.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom she is regularly sought out by the media to discuss issues related to substance use disorders and has been on the CBS morning show, katie couric show, and fox news as well as a variety of radio shows including frequent NPR segments such as the people’s pharmacy and the diane rehm show.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom