flooding as a behavioural treatment of phobias 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 practicing 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 CS is encountered without the UCS, therefore CR will no longer be produced.
What are the 5 evaluation points of flooding?
\+ Effective at treating many phobias - Not all phobias \+cost effective - ethical issues - relaxation may not be necessary.
