behavior therapy

noun

variants or behavioral therapy or behavior modification or behavioral modification
: psychotherapy that is concerned with the treatment (as by desensitization or aversion therapy) of observable behaviors rather than underlying psychological processes and that applies principles of learning to substitute desirable responses and behavior patterns for undesirable ones (such as phobias or obsessions) compare cognitive therapy
behavior therapist noun
or behavioral therapist

Examples of behavior therapy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Cognitive behavior therapy may be used to address behavioral and psychosocial factors. — Kara Rogers , Encyclopedia Britannica, 19 Mar. 2026 The other approach is cognitive behavior therapy. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 16 June 2026 Cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy have been found to be significantly helpful for building self-esteem and coping with difficult emotions. — Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 16 Apr. 2026 The techniques of cognitive behavior therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy provide a path toward finding common ground and preventing existential fears from escalating into violence. — Carl F. Weems, The Conversation, 30 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for behavior therapy

Word History

First Known Use

1937, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of behavior therapy was in 1937

Rhymes for behavior therapy

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Browse Nearby Words

behavior problem
behavior therapy
behaviour
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Cite this Entry

“Behavior therapy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/behavior%20therapy. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

behavior therapy

noun
variants or behavioral therapy or behavior modification or behavioral modification
: psychotherapy that is concerned with the treatment (as by desensitization or aversion therapy) of observable behaviors rather than underlying psychological processes and that applies principles of learning to substitute desirable responses and behavior patterns for undesirable ones (such as phobias or obsessions) compare cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive therapy

More from Merriam-Webster on behavior therapy

Nglish: Translation of behavior therapy for Spanish Speakers

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