What Systematic Desensitization

Systematic desensitization is a behavioral therapy technique used to treat phobias and anxiety disorders. It involves gradually exposing the person to the feared object or situation in a controlled and supportive environment. The goal is to reduce the person's fear and anxiety response over time.

Systematic desensitization is based on the principles of classical conditioning and operant conditioning. In classical conditioning, a neutral stimulus is paired with a fear-provoking stimulus so that the neutral stimulus eventually comes to elicit the same fear response. In operant conditioning, reinforcement or punishment is used to shape behavior.

In systematic desensitization, the person is first taught relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation. Then, a hierarchy of fear-provoking stimuli is created, ranging from the least fearsome to the most fearsome. The person is then gradually exposed to each stimulus in the hierarchy, starting with the least fearsome. If the person is able to remain relaxed, they are gradually exposed to more fearsome stimuli.

As the person progresses through the hierarchy, they learn that the feared object or situation is not as dangerous as they thought and that they can manage their fear. This process helps to extinguish the fear response and reduce anxiety.

Systematic desensitization is a safe and effective treatment for phobias and anxiety disorders. It is typically used in conjunction with other forms of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Here are the steps involved in systematic desensitization:

1. Assessment: The therapist will assess the person's fear or anxiety and create a hierarchy of fear-provoking stimuli.

2. Relaxation training: The person will be taught relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation.

3. Gradual exposure: The person will be gradually exposed to each stimulus in the hierarchy, starting with the least fearsome.

4. Reinforcement: The person will be reinforced for their progress, such as with praise or rewards.

5. Termination: Treatment will end when the person is able to remain relaxed when exposed to the most fearsome stimulus.

Systematic desensitization is a collaborative process between the therapist and the person seeking treatment. It requires commitment and effort from the person, but it can be a very effective way to reduce fear and anxiety.