The aim of the method for quantifying hierarchy stimuli by Galvanic Skin Resistance recordings is to improve the results of systematic desensitization by attenuating the subjective influences in hierarchy construction which are common in traditional procedures. (Author/CS)

The theoretical basis for Wolpe's systematic desensitization, with its principle of reciprocal inhibition and its emphasis on the role of physiological relaxation, is explained. The author examines the literature relevant to the effectiveness of desensitization with, and without, relaxation, as well as the effectiveness of relaxation alone. All 3…

Within an experimental paradigm that simulated systematic desensitization, the effects of manipulated cognitive expectancy on avoidance behavior were evaluated. The results indicated that both overt avoidance behavior and two verbal indexes were differentially affected by expectancy and that no relationship between avoidance behavior and autonomic…

In the context of a "reinforced practice" treatment paradigm, the present study experimentally analyzed whether or not feedback superimposed upon contingent praise would have an additive therapeutic effect. (Author)

The article discusses the value of using mental imagery (MI) in personal efforts to achieve life goals. The process of relaxing, reducing fear, and remembering is described, followed by a discussion of MI and self-worth. Other issues mentioned are the strengthening and weakening of behavior, and resistance. (Author/BW)

The self-management of thoughts and mental images was used in a series of empirical case studies to influence behavior changes. The target behaviors in the cases reported were smoking, overeating, fingernail biting, thinking self-depreciative thoughts, and responding assertively. Self-monitoring, covert positive reinforcement, covert…

A group cognitive modification treatment was effective in significantly reducing test anxiety as assessed by (a) test performance, (b) self-reports and (c) grade point average. (Author)

Describes the use of systematic desensitization with a group to reduce anxiety about public speaking. (EJT)

In this paper 14 anxiety-reduction techniques are discussed. The sex therapist can integrate these techniques into the sex therapy contract with individuals or couples and use them either singly or in a sequential multiple technique format to reduce sexual anxiety. (Author)

This study investigates whether six women who previously had received 15 sessions of group systematic desensitization (SD) for their sexual anxiety would report additional treatment gains from participation in a sexual-enchantment workshop with their partners. The women reported a significant decrease in sexual anxiety. (Author)

The subject-controlled graduated exposure of a snake with feedback of exposure times resulted in significantly less avoidance behaviors for snake-phobic subjects than for control snake-phobic subjects who did not receive therapy. (Author)

Compared relative effectiveness of two multicomponent strategies in the treatment of test anxiety. Test-anxious students were assigned to groups. Within-group changes between pre- and post-testing favored multicomponent treatments. Between groups, both desensitization treatment programs demonstrated significant improvement over no-treatment on…

Degree of transfer and fear change associated with four levels of desensitization, pseudodesensitization, and no treatment were assessed in snakephobic students. Desensitization subjects reported significantly less anxiety than no-treatment controls when repeating their highest pretreatment responses, but were no different from either control…

The relative effects of imagerial covert rehearsal with attentional shifts and the use of an independent reinforcing agent in a covert reinforcement therapy were compared. A 17-year-old female student, requesting treatment for a snake phobia, served as the subject. The phobia was measured along four dimensions: behavioral approaches to a live…

An attempt is made to determine whether a behaviorally-oriented conditioning approach, "covert sensitization," is more effective in the treatment of alcoholism than the commonly used problem-solving approach, and whether female counselors employing covert sensitization were more successful than males. Thirty-two subjects selected on…