Orval Hobart Mowrer (1907–82) was a highly influential American psychologist renowned for his groundbreaking contributions to the field of psychotherapy. He was a professor of psychology at the University of Illinois 1948–75, where he conducted extensive research on behavior therapy and the treatment of psychological disorders.
Born in Indiana, Mowrer obtained his bachelor’s degree from Columbia College in 1928 and pursued his PhD in psychology at the University of Illinois, completing it in 1932. Throughout his career spanning several decades, he made significant advancements in the understanding and treatment of mental health disorders. One of his most notable achievements was the development of the two-factor theory of learning, which integrated principles from classical and operant conditioning.
Mowrer actively promoted the integration of psychological principles into various aspects of society. During his tenure as the president of the American Psychological Association in 1959, he placed great emphasis on raising awareness about mental health and advocating for evidence-based practices in psychology. His notable works include Learning Theory and Personality Dynamics (1947) and The Crisis in Psychiatry and Religion (1961,) which delved into the intersection of psychology, spirituality, and mental health.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Orval Hobart Mowrer
It is easier to act yourself into a better way of feeling than to feel yourself into a better way of action.
—Orval Hobart Mowrer
Topics: Better, Feel, Action, Act
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