A behavior chain comprises sequential events that start with a trigger, progress through thoughts to behavior, and end with a consequence.
As a result, it should come as no surprise that the only natural barriers to any behavior change are existing habits. We need to be effective if we want to accomplish our goals. Rather than emphasizing "good" or "wrong," the attention here is on what works in a specified context.
While yelling at a server in a restaurant after receiving a wrong order may make you feel right, is it effective? You would be happier and more at ease if the server swiftly remedied the mistake and didn't feel threatened by you for the remainder of the meal.
Needed Behaviors and Expected Behaviors
Missing-links analysis identifies what effective acts are missing from undesired behavior—problem-solving so that you may behave more effectively in the future.
Effective behaviors that are frequently absent fall under the headings of “needed” and “expected.” A needed behavior is employing coping techniques to calm down after an upsetting interaction. A needed behavior may also handle a particular problem, such as going to work without a car or gas money.
Expected behaviors, on the other hand, are those that you have promised to do, been ordered to, planned to, or greatly wished to accomplish. Paying overdue bills, clearing out the closet, and engaging in some form of exercise or meditation first thing in the morning are just a few examples.
Analyzing What Went Wrong
Evaluating situations where effective activities are regularly missing may be highly beneficial when recovering from addictive behavior or trying to change any unwelcome routine. A missing-links analysis is used to determine where our activities went wrong. To avoid problems in the future, you need to identify where in the chain of events you could have responded more effectively and then focus solely on that link.
Answer the following questions when conducting a missing-links analysis:
- Did I comprehend the required effective behavior?
- At any time, could I see myself taking the effective approach?
- Would I have willingly done the effective action?
- What was it that prevented me from implementing the effective behavior?
To react effectively, you must concentrate on what will assist you rather than obstruct you in a particular situation. Long-term, an effective solution always wins over an emotional one. Your chances of permanently breaking a poor habit rise as your understanding of the missing links and consequences increases relating to the problematic behavior.
*To understand this topic better, watch the video above.
Contact Wish Recovery, one of the finest dual diagnosis treatment facilities, to learn more about missing-links analysis, behavior chain analysis, and other therapeutic techniques that may aid your recovery. Speak with our admissions professionals today if you desire a luxurious detox at a top-rated addiction treatment center.
