Psychology MCAT Practice Exam 2026 – Complete All-in-One Guide to Ensure Your Success!

Effective systematic desensitization primarily aims to reduce anxiety through gradual exposure to a phobic stimulus. This therapeutic technique is rooted in classical conditioning and involves exposing an individual to the feared object or context in a controlled and incremental manner. The process often includes relaxation techniques, where the person learns to associate the previously anxiety-inducing stimulus with a state of relaxation rather than fear.

As the individual is gradually exposed to the stimulus in a safe environment, they can start to confront their fears without overwhelming feelings of anxiety. Over time, this gradual exposure helps diminish the fear response, making a previously feared situation or object appear less threatening. This is why the outcome of reduced anxiety through gradual exposure is the primary result of effective systematic desensitization.