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A Comparison of Two Brief Group Behavior Therapy Techniques on the Reduction of Avoidance Behavior

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Abstract

A comparison was made between two brief group behavior therapy techniques, systematic desensitization and in vivo contact desensitization, on the effectiveness of each to reduce snake avoidance behavior. Results showed contact desensitization to be significantly superior to systematic desensitization and controls. Theory, problems, and fruitfulness of further research with these therapeutic techniques was discussed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, 85281, USA

    Stuart B. Litvak

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  1. Stuart B. Litvak
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Additional information

The author would like to thank Michael Devich and aren Oatis, who served as experimental assistants in this study. Appreciation is also expressed towards Dr. Charles D. Gersten and David C. Rimm for their valuable suggestions and comments.

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Litvak, S.B. A Comparison of Two Brief Group Behavior Therapy Techniques on the Reduction of Avoidance Behavior. Psychol Rec 19, 329–334 (1969). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03393856

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