Systematic desensitisation primarily aims to what?

Systematic desensitisation is a therapeutic technique primarily used to help individuals manage and overcome their fears and phobias. It works by gradually exposing patients to their anxiety-provoking stimuli while simultaneously employing relaxation techniques. This dual approach allows patients to confront their fears in a controlled and supportive environment, reducing their anxiety response over time.

By maintaining relaxation during the process, patients learn to associate the previously feared stimuli with a sense of calm rather than anxiety. This principle is rooted in classical conditioning, where the goal is to replace the fear response with a relaxation response. As they progress through the hierarchy of fears, patients can eventually face the most anxiety-inducing situations without experiencing overwhelming stress.

The other options do not align with the primary aim of systematic desensitisation. Introducing surprising stimuli would not create a safe space for the patient to confront their fears. Avoidance of anxiety-inducing situations contradicts the very purpose of desensitisation, which encourages exposure rather than avoidance. Enhancing negative feelings towards stimuli would be counterproductive, as the goal of the therapy is to diminish fear and anxiety, not to amplify it.