treating phobias - systematic Desensitisation

Question 1

what are the 6 AO1 points you must know for systematic desensitisation?

Answer 1

-Definition of Systematic Desensitisation
-Principle of Reciprocal Inhibition
-Anxiety/Fear Hierarchy
-Relaxation Techniques
-Gradual Exposure through Hierarchy
-Successful when Client Responds Calmly

Question 2

What is systematic desensitisation?

Answer 2

A behavioural therapy based on classical conditioning that replaces fear with relaxation when faced with the phobic stimulus.

Question 3

What is reciprocal inhibition in systematic desensitisation?

Answer 3

The idea that a e person cannot be anxious and relaxed at the same time, so relaxation inhibits the fear response

Question 4

What is an anxiety hierarchy?

Answer 4

A step-by-step list created with the therapist, ranking least to most frightening situations involving the phobia.

Question 5

What relaxation techniques are used in SD?

Answer 5

Techniques include deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mental imagery to help reduce anxiety.

Question 6

How is the phobic stimulus introduced in SD?

Answer 6

Through gradual exposure — starting with the least frightening scenario and only moving up the hierarchy when calm.

Question 7

When is SD considered successful?

Answer 7

When the person can experience their most feared situation without anxiety — showing the phobia has been unlearned.