7. Steps to apply the exposure technique

Question 1

Phase 1

Answer 1

Delimitation of target behaviour:
- List of situations they avoid
- Specific descriptions of problematic behaviour (modulators/safety behaviours, degree of fear and avoidance)

Question 2

Phase 2

Answer 2

Introduce the SAU’s scale or fear thermometer:
- Useful to assess anx level at any time, know when we can finish and evaluate improvement
- Subjective measure
- Serves as reference point for them.
0= relaxed
10 or 100= maximum anxiety

Question 3

Phase 3

Answer 3

Building the exposure hierarchy:
- Elaborate list of feared situations
- Take modulators into account
- Start with situation that causes highest level of anxiety, the situation that would cause moderate level and lastly, 2 or 3 between first and last
- 4 or 5 items in the hierarchy are established

Question 4

Phase 4

Answer 4

Select the status of the exposure hierarchy, depending on the difficulty levels
- Should start with situation that produces moderate anxiety (4 or 5)
- If this is too hard we have a range of movements
- Must be a bit challenging for the person

Question 5

Phase 5

Answer 5

Exposure to the first situation in the hierarchy
-Follow rules
- Do not abandon the situation until the anxiety has not subsided. At most for a brief period and come back later
- Do not go to a new situation in the hierarchy until you have passed the previous one
- Exposure should be regular, frequent and prolonged