What does the technique of desensitization involve?

Desensitization is a therapeutic technique primarily used to help individuals confront and overcome fears or phobias. The correct answer involves gradual exposure while relaxed, which effectively reduces anxiety associated with the feared stimulus. This process is known as systematic desensitization, where a person is gradually introduced to the feared object or situation in a controlled manner while employing relaxation techniques. This combination helps to create a new association between the feared stimulus and a state of calmness, ultimately leading to reduced fear response.

The gradual approach allows individuals to build coping mechanisms and manage their anxiety at each step before moving on to more intense exposures. This is effective because it prevents overwhelming the individual, which can happen with immediate exposure to the feared stimulus, leading to increased anxiety rather than desensitization. Moreover, it is important for the person to focus on relaxation, as this helps to counteract the physiological responses typically triggered by fear.