Behavioral approach to treating phobias

Question 1

Systematic desensitization

Answer 1

Gradually reduce phobic anxiety through classical conditioning.

Question 2

Systematic desensitization 3 processses

Answer 2

• anxiety hierarchy
• relaxation
• exposure

Question 3

Anxiety hierarchy

Answer 3

Put together by therapist + client. List from least to most anxiety provoking situations.

Question 4

Relaxation

Answer 4

Breathing exercises , metal imagery ( or drugs - Valium )

Question 5

Exposure

Answer 5

Exposed to phobic stimulus whilst in a relaxed state

Question 6

Flooding

Answer 6

Immediate exposure to frightening situation. longer than SD.

Question 7

SD evaluation strength

Answer 7

P- evidence for effectiveness
E- Gilroy follow up , group who had received SD were less fearful than control group.
L- this means that SD is likely to be helpful for people with phobias

Question 8

SD evaluation strength

Answer 8

P - suitable for ppts with learning disabilities
E - alter movies to SD are not suitable
E- often struggle with Congo the therapies
L - this means SD is often most appropriate.

Question 9

Flooding evaluation strength

Answer 9

P- highly cost effective
E- it’s clinically effective and not expensive
E- can work in one session
L- this means more ppl can be treated at the same cost compared to SD

Question 10

Flooding evaluation weakness

Answer 10

P- Highly unpleasant experience
E- confronting phobia provokes extreme anxiety
E- raises ethical issues
E- higher drop out rates
L- suggest , this treatment may be avoided