This basic assumption underlies both systematic desensitization and flooding: Phobias are maintained by avoidance of the feared object or situation, and the solution is to compel the phobic person to face his or her fears directly.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Both systematic desensitization and flooding are based on the principle that avoidance behaviors maintain phobias, and that exposure to the feared object or situation without the opportunity to avoid it will eventually extinguish the phobic response.

This Basic Assumption Underlies Both Systematic Desensitization and Flooding: Phobias