Behaviourist Treatments for Phobias

Question 1

Identify the two treatments for phobias.

Answer 1

Systematic desensitisation and flooding.

Question 2

Outline systematic desensitisation as a treatment for phobias.

Answer 2

Gradual process of counterconditioning aimed at associating phobic stimulus with relaxation, not fear.

Steps include learning relaxation techniques, creating an anxiety hierarchy, gradual exposure, and using relaxation techniques at each level.

Question 3

Outline flooding as a treatment for phobias.

Answer 3

Immediate, intense exposure to phobic stimulus aimed at replacing fear with relaxation via counterconditioning.

Can be in vivo or in vitro, prevents avoidance behaviours, and leads to fear extinction.

Question 4

What is a strength of systematic desensitisation?

Answer 4

High effectiveness with around a 75% success rate, more reliable than in vitro flooding, and less distressing for clients.

Question 5

What is a limitation of systematic desensitisation?

Answer 5

Less cost-effective, takes longer due to gradual process, and requires more therapist time.

Question 6

What is a strength of flooding?

Answer 6

Cost-effective, achieves the same 75% success rate as systematic desensitisation, and requires fewer therapy sessions.

Question 7

What is a limitation of flooding?

Answer 7

Highly distressing with immediate exposure to worst fear, higher risk of clients dropping out, and may reduce long-term effectiveness.