Relaxation

Question 1

What is relaxation?

Answer 1

• a state of being free from tension and anxiety (this is linked to an emotional characteristic of phobias)

Question 2

Name one way relaxation is used in systematic desensitisation?

Answer 2

• can be achieved by a patient learning controlled breathing (taking slow and deep breaths)
• this is done as when we are anxious,a breathing fastens, slowing down helps us relax

Question 3

Name a second way in which breathing is used in systematic desensitisation?

Answer 3

• focusing on a particular object (not the phobic stimulus)

Question 4

Name a third way in which relaxation is used in systematic desensitisation?

Answer 4

• visualising a peaceful scene

Question 5

Name a final way in which relaxation is used in systematic desensitisation?

Answer 5

• progressive muscle relaxation (alternating tension and relaxation in all of the body’s major muscle groups)