Classical conditioning model of panic disorder: response to Wolpe and Rowan.

We refute Wolpe and Rowan's (1989) classical conditioning theory of panic disorder based upon several lines of evidence presented above. While there is no doubt that hyperventilation and conditioning are important factors in the production of panic attacks, Wolpe and Rowan's (1989) hypothesis is inconsistent with recent data concerning the limited role of hyperventilation and the importance of cognitive mediation in the production of panic attacks.