What therapeutic technique uses gradual exposure to anxiety-inducing stimuli paired with relaxation?

Systematic desensitization is a therapeutic technique commonly used in the treatment of phobias and anxiety disorders. It involves gradually exposing the patient to anxiety-inducing stimuli while simultaneously teaching them relaxation techniques to counteract the feelings of anxiety.

The process typically begins with the creation of a hierarchy of fears, where the patient lists situations or stimuli that trigger anxiety, ranked from least to most distressing. The individual is exposed to these stimuli gradually, starting with the least threatening, while employing relaxation strategies such as deep breathing or visualization. Over time, this exposure helps to diminish the patient’s anxiety response to the stimuli, as they learn to associate the previously anxiety-inducing situation with a state of relaxation instead.

This technique contrasts with other approaches, such as aversion therapy, which seeks to eliminate undesirable behaviors by creating negative associations, or cognitive restructuring, which focuses on changing maladaptive thoughts and beliefs. Flooding, another exposure technique, involves immediate and intense exposure to the most frightening stimuli without gradual progression, which can be overwhelming for some individuals. Systematic desensitization stands out for its structured, step-by-step approach intended to help patients build confidence and comfort in facing their fears.