Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Treating phobias refers to the various methods and techniques used to alleviate or overcome intense and irrational fears, known as phobias. These treatments aim to reduce anxiety and help individuals regain control over their lives.
Related terms
Exposure therapy: A form of treatment where individuals gradually face their fears in a controlled environment, helping them become desensitized to the feared object or situation.
Systematic desensitization: A technique that combines relaxation exercises with exposure therapy, aiming to replace anxiety responses with relaxation responses when confronted with the feared stimulus.
Cognitive restructuring: An approach that focuses on identifying and modifying negative thought patterns associated with the phobia, aiming to change irrational beliefs into more rational ones.