covert desensitization

a form of desensitization therapy in which an individual is helped to overcome a fear or anxiety by learning to relax while imagining an anxiety-producing stimulus. A hierarchy is devised with a sequence of items that range from the least to the most anxiety-producing aspects of the stimulus. The individual then uses relaxation techniques while progressively imagining items on the hierarchy until able to imagine the stimulus without feeling anxious. Compare in vivo desensitization. See also systematic desensitization.

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Psychology term of the day

May 10th 2024

parenting training

any program that instructs parents and other caregivers in techniques for effectively dealing with problem behavior in their children. Also called parent training. See also family intervention.