Modification of disease phobia using a multifaceted exposure program.
By the use of a multifaceted exposure program that lasted 16 weeks, a 27-year-old male was treated for debilitating and irrational fears of having a heart attack. The subject reported reductions in daily anxiety ratings and Valium intake at midtreatment and further reductions at the conclusion of treatment. These changes were maintained at 6- and 12-month followup assessments. The subject's reports were confirmed by his spouse. The results are discussed in terms of the behavioral characteristics and etiology of disease phobia.
Tearnan
B H
BH
Goetsch
V
V
Adams
H E
HE
D000328:Adult; D001007:Anxiety / Q000628:therapy; D001521:Behavior Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D003887:Desensitization, Psychologic; D003975:Diazepam / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D006998:Hypochondriasis / Q000628:therapy*; D007092:Imagination; D008297:Male; D010698:Phobic Disorders / Q000628:therapy*
D003975:Diazepam