behavioural approach to treating phobias

Question 1

systematic desensitization

Answer 1

A behavioral therapy designed to reduce phobic anxiety through gradual exposure
- involves creating an anxiety hierarchy and teaching relaxation techniques

Question 2

What principle does systematic desensitization rely on

Answer 2

Counterconditioning
- It teaches a new response (relaxation) to the phobic stimulus

Question 3

flooding

Answer 3

behavioral therapy involving immediate exposure to the phobic stimulus
- occurs in a secure environment to prevent escape

Question 4

What principle does flooding rely on

Answer 4

It is impossible to maintain heightened anxiety for a prolonged period
- eventually, patients learn that the phobic stimulus is harmless.

Question 5

strengths

Answer 5

✅ Effective treatments
→ Example: Gilroy et al. (2003) found systematic desensitisation was more effective than a control group for spider phobias.

✅ Cost-effective and quick
→ Example: Flooding is often faster and cheaper than cognitive therapies

Question 6

limitations

Answer 6

❌ Ethical concerns
→ Example: Flooding can be highly distressing for patients, risking ethical issues.

❌ Symptom substitution
→ Example: Behavioural treatments may remove the symptom but not the underlying cause, leading to other problems