The Hierarchy of Fear, Used by Therapists Working with Clients

question 42

Multiple Choice

The hierarchy of fear, used by therapists working with clients who are undergoing systematic desensitization, consists of

• A) a series of bodily reactions, ranging from simple uneasiness to full-blown panic.
• B) a list of clients, ranging from those suffering mild fears to those suffering full-blown phobias.
• C) a list of therapies, ranging from the least to the most frightening procedure.
• D) a series of scenes that make the patient fearful, ranging from least to most feared.

---

Definitions:

Schizophrenia

A psychiatric disorder marked by delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, and impaired cognitive function.

Elderly People

Individuals who are significantly advanced in age, often defined as being 65 years of age or older.

Initially Diagnosed

The first identification of a medical or psychological condition, based on an assessment of symptoms and possibly diagnostic tests.

Psychotic Cognitive Symptoms

Symptoms associated with psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia, that include difficulties in memory, attention, and executive functions, contributing to a distorted perception of reality.