Overcoming Academic Procrastination: A Behavioral-Cognitive Approach

Authors

  • Joshua Lee Archbishop Riordan High School
  • Riya Thomas Albert Einstein College of Medicine

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47611/jsrhs.v12i4.5436

Keywords:

CBT, operant conditioning, procrastination, behavioral psychology, cognitive psychology, external distractions

Abstract

Procrastination, the act of delaying tasks, is an issue affecting students regardless of skin color, age, or gender. Notably, these young students are a significant proportion in the United States that struggle with academic procrastination. This research paper adopts the framework of a behavioral-cognitive psychology approach, employing both cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and operant conditioning to uncover how academic procrastination occurs. CBT is the forefront instrument proposed to identify the cognitive processes contributing to the behavior procrastination. The role of operant conditioning serves as a tool to unlearn the behavior. The aim of the study was to explore the potential of a behavioral-cognitive approach to addressing the external distractions that can cause academic procrastination. Based on the current literature available regarding how CBT and operant conditioning are applied, a conclusion was formed. The study contains a preliminary model that aims to reduce academic procrastination by unlearning the behavior and addressing the underlying causes. Further research on the impact operant conditioning holds to influence an individual is required to solidify the findings.

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Author Biography

Riya Thomas, Albert Einstein College of Medicine

My name is Riya Thomas and I am from Boston, MA. I graduated from Boston College in 2020 with degrees in Biology and Theology. I am currently a second-year medical student at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in NY. During my high school and college years, I expanded upon my interest in science and through it, discovered my passion for finding tangible solutions to complex problems. This passion, along with my interest in bioethics and advocacy, solidified my interest in medicine. My interests paved a unique academic path for me and allowed me to find ways to reconcile my passions for the biological sciences and social justice.

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Published

11-30-2023

How to Cite

Lee, J., & Thomas, R. (2023). Overcoming Academic Procrastination: A Behavioral-Cognitive Approach. Journal of Student Research, 12(4). https://doi.org/10.47611/jsrhs.v12i4.5436

Issue

Section

HS Review Articles