4.1.14

Diagnostic Misconceptions - Desensitisation

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Systematic Desensitisation and Flooding

Both of these treatments use the behavioural approach within a therapy setting to treat phobias.

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Systematic desensitisation

  • Gradual process spanning over weeks if needed.
  • Patients devise an anxiety hierarchy with their most to least frightening experience in relation to their phobia.
  • The therapist teaches relaxation techniques and support the client whilst they are exposed to each level in their hierarchy.
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Flooding

  • Flooding is exposure to a phobic stimulus without a gradual build-up.
    • They are taught relaxation techniques by a therapist.
    • They are exposed to the highly feared stimulus, e.g. a snake.
    • They become very distressed.
    • They use the relaxation techniques and after a while, they feel less distressed.

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