What is Systematic desensitization

Systematic desensitization is a proven technique for overcoming phobias. In this blog post, we will discuss the three steps of systematic desensitization and how you can use it to overcome your own fears. We will also provide tips for choosing a therapist and finding resources to support your journey.

Questions Asked in

2013 September UGC NET  in Social Work Paper 3 -Q-1

1. Classical conditioning technique used to eliminate phobias, is used in

(A) Generalization

(B) Operant conditioning

(C) Spontaneous recovery

(D) Systematic desensitization

The answer is (D).

Systematic desensitization is a classical conditioning technique used to eliminate phobias. It works by gradually exposing the person to the feared stimulus while they are in a state of relaxation. This helps to associate the feared stimulus with relaxation, which eventually extinguishes the fear response.

Generalization, operant conditioning, and spontaneous recovery are all concepts related to classical conditioning, but they are not used to eliminate phobias.

Generalization is the tendency for a conditioned response to generalize to other similar stimuli. For example, if a person is conditioned to fear spiders, they may also start to fear other small, crawling insects.

Operant conditioning is a type of learning in which behavior is modified by its consequences. For example, a person may be rewarded for approaching a spider, which will eventually lead to them no longer being afraid of spiders.

Spontaneous recovery is the reappearance of a conditioned response after it has been extinguished. For example, a person who has been successfully treated for a spider phobia may experience a fear of spiders again after a period of time.

Therefore, the only option that is a classical conditioning technique used to eliminate phobias is systematic desensitization. So the answer is (D).