A2 Psychology: Phobia (Biological Therapies)

Phobia: Biological Therapies

• Chemotherapy (Drugs):

1. Anti-anxiety drugs (BZ's)

-used to reduce anxiety by slowing down the activity of the central nervous system by enhancing the activity of GABA (neurotransmitter) thus slowing down brain activity and making the person feel more relaxed.

-Beta-blockers reduce the activity of adrenaline and noradrenaline. Beta-blockers lower blood pressure making the person feel calmer and less anxious. 

2. Antidepressants 

-also reduce anxiety by increasing the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and anxiety.

EVALUATION:

- Does not solve the phobia it just treats the symptoms

- Can become dependant on the drugs

- side effects

- if you stop taking the pills then the symptoms will return

• Psychosurgery

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