Desensitisation

Desensitisation is the process by which someone becomes less sensitive to a stimulus. This can apply to physical sensations like pain or temperature, or to emotional and psychological responses. It often involves repeated exposure to the stimulus, either gradually or in a controlled manner, leading to a reduced reaction. The goal is often to diminish a negative or unwanted response, such as fear, anxiety, or pain, and is used in both medical and therapeutic settings. It is also relevant in describing a decline in the ability to experience emotions or feelings intensely.

Desensitisation meaning with examples

• After several weeks of therapy, Sarah's desensitisation to the sight of needles allowed her to receive injections without panicking. This involved gradual exposure, starting with photographs and moving on to observing real-life medical procedures. Now, needles no longer trigger her flight or fight response, but rather minor anxiety.
• The army used a controlled form of desensitisation training to prepare soldiers for the sights and sounds of combat. Constant simulation led to a significant desensitisation to the triggers for distress, however, the effects of this training are debated by mental health experts in post-deployment support.
• Exposure therapy is frequently employed to create a desensitisation to phobias. For example, someone afraid of spiders may be exposed to images of spiders, then actual spiders in controlled settings, until the fear subsides. Eventually, a desensitised patient can handle spiders normally.
• Frequent exposure to violent media has been suggested to result in a desensitisation to violence in general. Studies suggest people react less intensely to violent content and it may lead to a diminished empathy towards violent crimes or social issues.