Behavioural Approach To The Treatment Of Phobias

Question 1

Systematic desensitisation

Answer 1

-Based on classical conditioning.
-Trains patient to be relaxed in the presence of the phobic stimulus.
-Combine this with reciprocal inhibition(one inhibits the other) the patient is no longer afraid around the phobic stimulus.
-The conditioned response of being afraid is replaced with relaxation.

Question 2

Flooding

Answer 2

-Patient is exposed to immediate and intense exposure to phobic stimulus without an escape.
-Patients fear eventually passes when no harm occurs.
-Sessions are shorter than systematic desensitisation but are more intense.

Question 3

Treatment of phobias evaluation

Answer 3

-SD is gradual and less traumatic, suitable for many patients.
-Flooding is quicker but can cause high anxiety and dropouts.
-Effectiveness may vary depending on individual case.