The generalization of anxiety reduction following systematic desensitization of snake anxiety

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the generalizing effects of systematic desensitization using behavioral and self-report measures. Nineteen female students who reported “terror” or “very much fear” to snakes and to either rats or spiders on a modified Fear Survey Schedule II (FSS II) were used as Ss. The twelve Ss in the treatment group were given avoidance tests in the presence of a snake and then to either a spider or rat. Treatment Ss were then given desensitization for snakes, following the procedure employed by Garlington and Cotler (1968). This involved two sessions of relaxation training, two sessions of visualization training, and up to ten sessions of desensitization. Desensitization was continued until each S had completed the 16-item snake hierarchy. Following the last desensitization session, the treatment Ss were again given the modified FSS II and the avoidance tests. One month later, a follow-up was completed; and the treatment Ss were given the avoidance tests for the third time. At this time, the seven control Ss were called in and were given the questionnaire and the avoidance tests. The results revealed significant reductions in behavioral and self-report responses of the treatment Ss with respect to snakes, spiders, and overall responses to the modified FSS II. However, the differences between the experimental and control groups were not as clear-cut as had been expected. Thus, the generalization hypothesis was partially confirmed. Several findings with respect to self-report versus behavioral measures and proper selection of control groups were discussed.