Desensitization
Desensitization is the gradual reduction of an anxiety or emotional response through safe, controlled contact with a stimulus.
Definition
Desensitization is related to exposure therapies and learning that a stimulus does not always mean a threat. It should be adapted to your tolerance level and does not involve brutally throwing yourself into the most difficult situation. In case of strong fears, trauma or phobias, it is best to consult a specialist.
Key ideas
- Gradual exposure
- Security and control
- Teaching a new response
Practice and life
Arrange a ladder from 1 to 10: from the easiest contact with the stimulus to the most difficult. Start with a level that is challenging but possible.
Common misconceptions
It is a mistake to push the exposure beyond the tolerance window. The second mistake is to avoid every difficulty, so that fear does not have the opportunity to actualize itself.
> What is slowly tamed ceases to govern the entire system.
> — Guru Element
Questions for self-reflection
- What is the minimum amount of stimulus contact that is safe?
- How will I know if the pace is too fast?
- Do I need specialist support?