Psychological therapies: systematic de-sensitisation

BEHAVIOURAL

• used to treat phobias and other behaviour problems involving anxiety

Developed by Joseph Wolpe

The aim of SD is to reduce or eliminate the anxiety that people feel towards feared objects, or situtations which interferes with their ability to lead a normal happy life.

SD works by gradually introducing an individual to an object or situation so it is not overwhelming. By being able to relax at each step, the situation become more familiar, less overwhelming and they develop a greater confidence and their anxiety diminishes.

SD enables individuals to overcome their anxieties by learning to relax in the presence of stimuli that had once made…