Behavioural approach to treating phobias

Question 1

What is systematic desensitisation

Answer 1

Behavioural therapy designed to reduce phobic anxiety through gradual exposure to the phobic stimulus

Question 2

Explain systematic desensitisation

Answer 2

It relies on counterconditioning and works via reciprocal inhibition. The patient draws an anxiety hireracrchy starting from least to most scary. The therapist taught the patient relaxation techniques. The patient works through their anxiety hierarchy and only progress to the next level once they can be calm at the present level. The phobias cured when the patient stays calm at. the highest levels

Question 3

What is counterconditioning

Answer 3

Learning a new response to the phobic stimulus, 1of relaxation rather. than panic

Question 4

What. is reciprocal. inhibition

Answer 4

(It is impossible to be both relaxed and anxious

Question 5

Give a + of systematic desensitisation (SEG)

Answer 5

Supporting evidence from Gilroy who followed 42 patients treated in 3 sessions for a spider phobia. Their progress was compared to a control group of 50 who only learnt relaxation techniques. The extent of the phobia was measured via a questionnaire . At 3 and 33 months the SD group showed a reduction. in symptoms compared to a control group, used to support its effectiveness

Question 6

Give a + of systematic desensitisation (SMP)

Answer 6

Suitable for many patients, anxiety is often accompanied with learning difficulties meaning patients may not be able to make the full cognitive commitment associated with CBT or have the ability to evaluate their own thoughts. Therefore, SD is a suitable alternative

Question 7

Give a + of systematic desensitisation (LRAR)

Answer 7

More acceptable to patients shown by low refusal and attrition rates. This idea has economical implication because it increases. the likelihood that the patient will agree to start and continue with the therapy

Question 8

What is the idea of flooding?

Answer 8

A behavioural therapy designed to reduce phobic. anxiety in 1 session through immediate exposure to the. stimulus

Question 9

Where does flooding occur?

Answer 9

In a secure environment from which the patient can’t escape - without the option practicing avoidance, such behaviour isn’t reinforced. and so the phobia isn’t maintained

Question 10

How does flooding work in. the spider. phobia case

Answer 10

The patient is exposed to room of spiders which can crawl them. This relies on the principle that it’s physically impossible to maintain. a state of heightened anxiety for a prolonged period meaning eventually the patient will. learn the phobic stimulus is harmless

Question 11

Give a + of flooding (CE)

Answer 11

It’s cost effective. when compared to cognitive therapies found it. cheaper because the patient. is treated in 1 session, therefore freeing them of. their symptoms and allowing them to continue their normal life

Question 12

Give a - (LECP)

Answer 12

Less effective. for complex phobias. Social phobias have anxiety and a cognitive aspect. Cognitive therapy is more beneficial because it targets the causes of the phobia. Suggesting alternative ways are more appropriate