behavioural approach- treating phobias

systematic desensitisation

behavioural therapy

aims to reduce phobic anxiety through the principle of classical conditioning

-anxiety hierarchy

-relaxation

-exposure

flooding

behavioural therapy

exposed to an extreme form of a phobic stimulus in order to reduce anxiety

-extinction: without the option for avoidance the individual quickly learns the phobic stimulus is harmless

evaluation strength- systematic desensitisation is effective

research has shown that SD is effective for specific, social and agoraphobia

evaluation strength- SD helps people with learning difficulties

people with learning abilities often struggle with cognitive therapies that require complex rational thought and flooding may be very confusing and distressing

evaluation strength- flooding is cost effective

clinically effective and highly cost effective as can work in as little as one session

evaluation weakness- flooding is traumatic

ethical issues, highly unpleasant experience as it provokes tremendous anxiety