Systematic desensitisation uses counter-conditioning to unlearn the maladaptive response to a situation by eliciting another response (relaxation).
Flooding is an extreme form of systematic desensitisation where the individual is exposed to their feared stimulus until they no longer experience anxiety or distress.
Firstly, the client and the therapist work together to develop a fear hierarchy, where they rank the phobic situation from least to most terrifying.
Next, the individual is taught relaxation techniques, such as breathing techniques, progressive muscle relaxation strategies, or mental imagery techniques.
Finally, the individual is exposed to their phobic situation, while relaxed. According to systematic desensitisation, two emotional states cannot exist at the same time, also known as reciprocal inhibition.
The patient moves up their hierarchy gradually until they are completely relaxed in the most feared situation.
