Which statement is true about systematic desensitization?

Which statement is true about systematic desensitization?

• A. It involves sudden exposure to high-intensity stimulus.
• B. It involves gradual, controlled exposure to increasingly intense stimuli.
• C. It relies on punishment.
• D. It uses random exposure.

Answer: (B)

Systematic desensitization focuses on gradually reducing fear by exposing the dog to the fear-inducing stimulus in small, controlled steps while keeping the dog calm. The process starts with a very low level of the stimulus that doesn’t provoke a strong reaction, and it slowly increases the intensity only as the dog remains relaxed. This gradual approach, often paired with positive reinforcement or coping skills, helps form a new, non-fearful association with the stimulus rather than triggering a full-blown fear response. It differs from flooding, which exposes the animal to a high-intensity version all at once and can overwhelm them. It also avoids punishment and random exposure, which can worsen fear or produce inconsistent results.

Systematic desensitization focuses on gradually reducing fear by exposing the dog to the fear-inducing stimulus in small, controlled steps while keeping the dog calm. The process starts with a very low level of the stimulus that doesn’t provoke a strong reaction, and it slowly increases the intensity only as the dog remains relaxed. This gradual approach, often paired with positive reinforcement or coping skills, helps form a new, non-fearful association with the stimulus rather than triggering a full-blown fear response. It differs from flooding, which exposes the animal to a high-intensity version all at once and can overwhelm them. It also avoids punishment and random exposure, which can worsen fear or produce inconsistent results.