Which CBT technique combines relaxation skills with self-talk, role-playing, rehearsal and systemic desensitization?

• A. Graded exposure
• B. Stress inoculation
• C. Dialectical thinking
• D. Mindfulness

Answer: (B)

This question tests a CBT approach that blends relaxation with cognitive coping, plus behavioral rehearsal and a gradual exposure plan. The best fit is Stress Inoculation Training. In SIT, clients first learn relaxation techniques and coping self-talk, then practice these skills through role-plays and rehearsal, and finally apply them to real-life situations via graded exposure. The goal is to inoculate the person against stress by building a toolkit of coping responses before facing progressively challenging scenarios.

Graded exposure centers on exposure steps to reduce fear, but it doesn’t inherently include the integrated relaxation, self-talk, and rehearsal components that SIT combines. Mindfulness focuses on present-moment awareness and acceptance and doesn’t inherently require role-play or a structured desensitization sequence. Dialectical concepts or DBT emphasize balancing acceptance with change and include mindfulness, but the specific combination described—relaxation with cognitive coping, role-playing, rehearsal, and systemic/desensitization—the most precise match is stress inoculation training.