You are terrified of snakes. Describe how behavior therapy would overcome this phobia using the terms, progressive relaxation, SUDS list, and modeling. What is this kind of therapy called?
If you are terrified of snakes you could use behavior therapy by first using progressive relaxation so that you first relax completely then imagine the snakes and the second you feel tension you go back into deep relaxation. Then once the tension on the SUDS list goes down, you use modeling and put people into a situation with snakes slowly and progressively make them more intense, until the fear is pretty much gone.
The type of therapy used to overcome phobias such as the fear of snakes is called exposure therapy, which is a form of behavior therapy. The following steps could be taken to help someone overcome their fear of snakes with this therapy:
1. Progressive Relaxation: This technique involves tensing and relaxing various muscle groups in the body to promote relaxation. By gradually relaxing the muscles, the individual can enter a deeper state of relaxation and may be less prone to anxiety.
2. SUDS List: The SUDS list is a scale used to rate the level of anxiety or fear a person experiences when faced with a specific situation or object. SUDS stands for Subjective Units of Distress Scale. The individual would be asked to write down a list of situations related to snakes that cause the most anxiety or distress, and then rate each scenario on a scale from 0 to 10 (with 10 being the most distressing).
3. Exposure: Once the SUDS list is created, the individual will be exposed to the least distressing scenario first. For example, if the person’s SUDS list rated seeing a picture of a snake at a 5, the therapist may start by showing the individual a picture of a snake while they are in a deep state of relaxation. The individual is then encouraged to focus on their relaxation techniques and remain calm while looking at the picture.
4. Modeling: The therapist may also use modeling to help the individual overcome their fear of snakes. This involves the therapist demonstrating how to approach and interact with a snake in a calm and relaxed manner, and then allowing the individual to observe and practice the same techniques.
Over time, the individual will gradually be exposed to more distressing scenarios related to snakes, gradually building their tolerance and reducing their fear. With consistent practice and exposure, the individual can learn to approach and interact with snakes without experiencing intense fear or anxiety.
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