Prolonged Exposure

Definition

Prolonged exposure refers to an extended period of time during which someone is continuously or repeatedly exposed to a specific stimulus, such as an aroma.

Related terms

Habituation:

Habituation occurs when our brain becomes accustomed to a repeated stimulus, leading us to pay less attention or respond less strongly to it.

Sensory adaptation: Sensory adaptation refers to the decrease in sensitivity that occurs when we are continually exposed to a constant stimulus. It allows our sensory systems to focus on detecting new or changing stimuli.

Saturation: Saturation happens when our sensory receptors become fully activated by a stimulus and cannot respond any further. In terms of aroma, this may occur when we have been exposed for so long that our olfactory system reaches its maximum capacity in processing that particular scent.