Desensitization (psychology) - Steps To Desensitization

Steps To Desensitization

The hierarchal list is constructed between client and therapist in rank ordered series of steps from the least disturbing to the most disturbing fears or phobias. Secondly the client is taught techniques that produce deep relaxation. It is impossible to feel both anxiety and relaxation at the same time, so easing the client into deep relaxation helps inhibit any feelings of anxiety. Systematic desensitization (a guided reduction in fear, anxiety or aversion) can then be achieved by gradually approaching the feared stimulus while maintaining relaxation. Desensitization works best when individuals are directly exposed to the stimuli and situations they fear so anxiety – evoking stimuli are paired with inhibitory responses, This is either carried out by performing in real life situations (known as vivo desensitization), or if it is not practical to directly act out the steps of hierarchy, clients can observe models performing the feared behaviour (known as vicarious desensitization). Clients slowly move up the hierarchy repeating performances if necessary, until the last item on the list is performed without fear or anxiety.