Systematic Desensitization In Classical Conditioning

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One method of classical conditioning which can be used to treat problem behaviours in humans is systematic desensitization. This type of therapy aims to treat phobias through counter-conditioning principles. This is where a person is exposed to small doses of the feared stimulus while engaging in an enjoyable task. In the case of systematic desensitization, the enjoyable tasks tend to be related to relaxation such as meditating in order to replace the fear response associated with the phobia with a relaxed response. This is done by acquiring relaxation techniques in order to make themselves feel more comfortable when confronted with their fear. This is done through several stages where at each stage the person is faced with a different severity