In exposure-based strategies, what is the effect of repeated exposure to anxiety-eliciting stimuli?

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Multiple Choice

In exposure-based strategies, what is the effect of repeated exposure to anxiety-eliciting stimuli?

Repeated exposure to anxiety-eliciting stimuli reduces fear responses over time through habituation and extinction. When you confront a feared cue repeatedly in a safe setting, the body's initial spike in anxiety tends to lessen with each exposure. At the same time, you learn that the feared outcome is unlikely or not as dangerous as once thought, which weakens the conditioned fear response. This gradual process leads to less avoidance and lower anxiety across future encounters. It’s not instantaneous—the change happens with consistent practice and proper, controlled exposure.

Repeated exposure to anxiety-eliciting stimuli reduces fear responses over time through habituation and extinction. When you confront a feared cue repeatedly in a safe setting, the body's initial spike in anxiety tends to lessen with each exposure. At the same time, you learn that the feared outcome is unlikely or not as dangerous as once thought, which weakens the conditioned fear response. This gradual process leads to less avoidance and lower anxiety across future encounters. It’s not instantaneous—the change happens with consistent practice and proper, controlled exposure.

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