The Behavioural Approach To Treating Phobias

Question 1

What does systematic desensitisation rely upon

Answer 1

• counterconditioning
• learning a new response to the phobic stimulus
• I.e one of relaxation rather than panic
• this works due to reciprocal inhibition - it is impossible to be both relaxed and anxious at the same time

Question 2

Explain the supporting evidence of systematic desensitisation

Answer 2

• Gulroy followed 42 patients treated in three session of systematic desensitisation
• progress was compared to a control group of patients who only learnt relaxation techniques
• at both 3 and 33 months the systematic desensitisation group showed a reduction in their symptoms as compared to the control group

Question 3

Flossing

Answer 3

• reduce phobia anxiety in one session
• occurs in a secure environment from which the patient cannot escape
• relies on the principle that it is physically impossible to maintain a state of anxiety for a prolonged period, so eventually patient learns that the phobia is harmless

Question 4

Strength of flooding

Answer 4

• more cost effective as phobia cures in one session