Behavioural Approach To Treating Phobias - Flooding Flashcards
What happens in flooding?
A patient is given one long session where the phobia is experienced at its worst, while at the same time practising relaxation.
How long does the session continue for in flooding?
It continues until the patient feels completely relaxed, which can last for 2-3 hours.
What is an example of flooding?
Someone who is afraid of spiders may have a large spider crawl freely over them for an extended period.
How does flooding stop phobic behaviour?
The sufferer is unable to demonstrate avoidance behaviour, so they quickly learn that their stimulus is harmless.
What can the process also be known as?
Extinction.
How is a learned response extinguished?
When the conditioned stimulus is encountered without the unconditioned stimulus, therefore conditioned response will not longer be produced.
What are the five evaluation points for flooding?
\+ Effective at treating many phobias. - Not all phobias. \+ Cost-effective. - Ethical issues. - Relaxation may not be necessary.
