Noun: systematic desensitization
- A technique used in behaviour therapy to treat phobias and other behaviour problems involving anxiety; client is exposed to the threatening situation under relaxed conditions until the anxiety reaction is extinguished
"The psychologist used systematic desensitization to help her patient overcome a fear of flying";
- desensitization technique, desensitisation technique [Brit], desensitization procedure, desensitisation procedure [Brit], systematic desensitisation [Brit]
Type of: behavior modification [US], behavior therapy [US], behaviour therapy [Brit, Cdn]
Encyclopedia: Systematic desensitization