Desensitization

Desensitization is also a fairly simple concept; however it requires the coordination of a number of interventions. As you help someone to desensitize you build self efficacy. You do this by first helping them to relax, this can be through play and doing an activity they both enjoy and for which they already have high self efficacy. Using successive approximations you then gently introduce the concept or activity that you and/or they want to build self efficacy for and be desensitized to. For example, you may help someone to relax with music and relaxation techniques or through play and/or an enjoyable activity, without making a bid deal about it and perhaps even a little in the distance, uncover the picture of a spider. Over time and a few sessions you would hand them a picture of a spider then have a toy spider and eventually have a real (safe) spider in a jar and continue this to the point needed. It would probably never be needed that they actually hold the spider. It is the same thing with almost anything else. If it is fear of flying this would continue until they actually took a short flight with someone they trusted and who would help them to relax. They may carry relaxing music with them or even a relaxing and enjoyable video to watch. This of course is all individualized. If someone does not have a problem with pictures of spiders but is afraid of spiders, you would not need to start by uncovering a picture of a spider. Starting with a toy spider may be more appropriate.