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Systematic Desensitization

By Arlin Cuncic, About.com

Updated: October 12, 2007

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Definition:

A behavioral therapy technique for treating specific phobias such as speech anxiety. During this treatment, the phobic person is asked to imagine the events that cause anxiety while engaging in a series of relaxation exercises. Over time, the person becomes desensitized to the anxiety-provoking event. After treatment, they will usually face the feared event with less anxiety.

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