Cautela, J. R., & Kearney, A. J. (Eds.), Covert conditioning casebook. Boston: Brooks-Cole.

An important step in obtaining the total cooperation of an individual for using imagery is to: (a) explain the procedure, and (b) have the individual define and realize capacities to do the target behavior. Without a belief that the intended behavior is possible, the effect of imagery will be minimally effective.

Implication. Imagery is a process by which an individual's aims and beliefs can be realized. It provides practice when overt practice might not be possible. It provides a practice platform for the cognitive aspects of any behavior.

Covert modeling, the more general form of what is known in sports as "visualization" or "mental practice," is theoretically applicable for dealing with any behavior. It is particularly applicable for individuals who have difficulty imagining/experiencing themselves in certain situations. It is potentially good for athletes with regard to the modification of skill behaviors, functioning in situations with which they have little experience, and generating positive mind-sets towards certain events.

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