Which exposure-based technique is described as a method to create anxiety to promote extinction in behavior therapy?

• A. Implosion or Flooding
• B. Systematic desensitization
• C. Aversion therapy
• D. Biofeedback

Answer: (A)

Flooding, also known as implosion, is an exposure technique where the person is confronted with the feared stimulus at full intensity right away, without gradual steps. This elicits a high level of anxiety that is sustained long enough for the fear response to extinguish as the individual learns the stimulus is not dangerous. Over time, the avoidance or fear diminishes because extinction occurs through repeated exposure.

Systematic desensitization uses a gradual, hierarchical exposure paired with relaxation, which reduces anxiety without cranking it up initially. Aversion therapy pairs a behavior with an unpleasant stimulus to discourage the behavior, not to extinguish fear. Biofeedback focuses on teaching self-regulation of physiological responses rather than exposing someone to feared situations.