Disadvantages of systematic desensitisation

Question 1

Name a disadvantage of systematic desensitisation

Answer 1

SD may not be effective for all phobias

• Ohman et al in 1975 (has two dots above his name) suggests that SD may not be effective in treating all phobias as some have an underlying evolutionary component (fear of the dark) rather than explanations that have occurred due to personal experience
• this is a limitation as SD can only be effective when treating some phobias, not all

Question 2

Name a second disadvantage of systematic desensitisation

Answer 2

Systematic desensitisation only treats the observable and measurable symptoms of the phobia
This is a limitation because emotional and cognitive processes are the motivator behind behaviour. Therefore, this exposure therapy only deals with the symptoms and not the underlying causes