57. John's therapist gave him a relaxation exercise and asked him to list ten phobic situations from least to most frightening. The therapist is probably going to use a technique called
Answer: D
Systematic desensitization
John's therapist is likely using systematic desensitization, a behavioral therapy technique designed to help individuals gradually confront and reduce their fears or phobias by exposure to anxiety-provoking stimuli in a controlled manner.
A) Reframing
Reframing involves changing the way an individual perceives a situation, often to view it more positively. While this can be beneficial for anxiety, it does not directly involve the structured exposure to phobic situations that is characteristic of systematic desensitization.
B) Shaping
Shaping is a technique that reinforces successive approximations toward a desired behavior. Although it is a useful behavioral strategy, it does not specifically address the gradual exposure to phobic situations as seen in systematic desensitization.
C) Aversive conditioning
Aversive conditioning aims to reduce undesirable behaviors by pairing them with unpleasant stimuli. This approach is not supportive of systematic desensitization, which focuses on reducing fear responses through gradual exposure rather than inducing discomfort.
D) Systematic desensitization
Systematic desensitization is a therapeutic method that involves ranking phobic situations from least to most frightening and gradually exposing the individual to these situations while using relaxation techniques. This is exactly what John's therapist is employing, as it helps him confront his fears incrementally.
E) Cognitive restructuring
Cognitive restructuring focuses on changing negative thought patterns to alter emotional responses. While it can be effective for anxiety management, it does not involve the exposure to phobic situations that is central to systematic desensitization.
Conclusion
Systematic desensitization is the correct answer as it specifically involves the gradual exposure to phobic situations while employing relaxation techniques. Other options, such as reframing, shaping, aversive conditioning, and cognitive restructuring, do not encompass the structured approach to fear reduction through exposure that defines systematic desensitization, thus making them less suitable for John's therapeutic exercise.