systematic desensitisation

    Cards (6)

    • sd
      the process of gradually introducing an individual to an object or event they feel uncomfortable with
    • counterconditioning
      a fear response is replaced with a relaxation response
    • reciprocal inhibition
      individuals cannot be in a state of fear and relaxation at the same time
    • steps for sd
      anxiety hierarchy , list of situations - ranking from least to most frightening
      relaxation - getting the patient to relax as deeply as possible, breathing techniques
      exposure - coming in contact whilst in a relaxed state and move down the list
    • strengths
      acceptable to all patients - does not cause the same about of trauma as flooding
      relaxation techniques make it more pleasurable
      research support - 2 groups with a fear of snakes
      group 1 has sd group 2 had no therapy
      group 1 showed less fear than group2 after 6 months
    • weakness
      practical issues - time consuming, could lead to patients dropping out
      expensive form of treatment , bad for the economy