What was the outcome of the boy's behavior towards the feared stimuli after treatment in the Saavedra study?

In the Saavedra study, the outcome of the boy's behavior towards the feared stimuli, which were buttons, showed significant improvement after treatment. The study utilized a form of exposure therapy that aimed to reduce the boy's fear and anxiety associated with the buttons. Following the treatment, he was able to engage more positively with the buttons, indicating a reduction in fear and anxiety levels.

The improvement in behavior signifies that the therapeutic intervention was effective in addressing the boy's phobia, allowing him to confront the feared stimulus rather than avoid it. This outcome is a key characteristic of successful behavioral treatments, which aim to modify reactions to previously feared stimuli through gradual exposure and positive reinforcement.