Automated direct deconditioning of a childhood phobia

Abstract

The authors present a procedure for the treatment of childhood phobias. Involving aspects of deconditioning, systematic desensitization and reinforced practice, it is referred to as automated direct deconditioning. The application of the procedure to a fear of loud noises in an 11-yr-old boy is described. Treatment was self-administered by the child in his home. Following relaxation in a darkened room, he listened to increasingly longer portions of a tape recording in which feared sounds were systematically superimposed upon selections of his favorite music. Participation in the sessions was reinforced by the child's parents. Within 24 sessions, over an 8-day period, the phobia was eliminated. The advantages of the procedure and its possibilities for other childhood phobias are discussed.