what is systematic desensitsation

• If we can LEARN a phobia, we can UNLEARN a phobia.
• Systematic desensitisation is a behavioural therapy designed to gradually reduce phobic anxiety through classical conditioning.
• Counterconditioning occurs - this the learning of a different response to the stimulus (e.g they learn to associate the phobic stimulus with relaxation instead of anxiety).
• It's also based on the idea of reciprocal inhibition is when you can't feel two emotions at once (so anxiety and relaxation can't be felt at the same time).