Abstract Exposure‐based strategies are effective treatments for many psychological disorders, yet there have been mixed findings regarding the processes underlying fear reduction during exposure. The purpose of this chapter is to provide an overview of exposure techniques and to discuss the current evidence regarding their effectiveness and the mechanisms by which exposure leads to fear reduction. The historical roots of exposure, as well as contemporary methods of exposure, are discussed. Possible mechanisms underlying exposure are reviewed, with the goal of understanding how and why fear reduction occurs during exposure. Guidelines for conducting exposure practices are discussed in the context of current empirical research.
Authors
Vorstenbosch V; Newman L; Antony MM
Book title
The Wiley Handbook of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy