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in vivo desensitization

a technique used in behavior therapy, usually to reduce or eliminate phobias, in which the client is exposed to stimuli that induce anxiety. The therapist, in discussion with the client, produces a hierarchy of anxiety-invoking events or items relating to the anxiety-producing stimulus or phobia. The client is then exposed to the actual stimuli in the hierarchy, rather than asked simply to imagine them. Success depends on the client overcoming anxiety as the events or items are encountered. Compare covert desensitization. See also systematic desensitization. [first developed by Mary Cover Jones]

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Psychology term of the day

September 14th 2024

optimal arousal theory

optimal arousal theory

see principle of optimal stimulation.