systematic desensitisation

Question 1

habituation

Answer 1

the process by which a persons behavioural and sensory response diminishes over time after repeated exposure to a specific stimulus

Question 2

systematic desensitisation

Answer 2

occurs over a number of sessions depending on the severity of the phobia (usually 4-6 but can be up to 12). gradual exposure to the phobia

Question 3

in vivo

Answer 3

exposure to the real object

Question 4

in vetro

Answer 4

imaginary exposure to the object

Question 5

reciprocal inhibition

Answer 5

suggests that two competing emotions can’t be experienced at the same time. this technique is used in behaviour therapy as it aims to replace an undesired response with a desired one

Question 6

this treatment consists of 4 stages

Answer 6

• functional analysis
• construction of the anxiety hierarchy
• relaxation training
  -gradual exposure

Question 7

functional analysis

Answer 7

careful questioning in order to discover the nature of the phobia and its possible triggers

Question 8

construction of anxiety hierarchy

Answer 8

the therapist will work with the client to contest a hierarchy of fear for the CS/phobia. it is ranked from least fearful to most fearful

Question 9

training in relaxation techniques

Answer 9

the patient is given these techniques as it is not possible to be both relaxed and anxious at the same time. examples of techniques include visualisation, meditation, etc

Question 10

gradual exposure

Answer 10

the client progressed along the fear hierarchy while simultaneously using relaxation techniques. they move up the hierarchy whenever they are no longer afraid. this can be done in vitro or in vivo.

Question 11

SLT for SD

Answer 11

if patient observe their model in the presence of the phobic stimulus and see that they response with jk fear they may be encourage to imitate the models behaviour and therefore relieve their phobia