desensitization

[ dee-sen-si-tuh-zey-shuhn ]

/ diˌsɛn sɪ təˈzeɪ ʃən /

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noun

the act or process of desensitizing.

Physiology, Medicine/Medical. the elimination or reduction of natural or acquired reactivity or sensitivity to an external stimulus, as an allergen.

Psychiatry. a behavior modification technique, used especially in treating phobias, in which panic or other undesirable emotional response to a given stimulus is reduced or extinguished, especially by repeated exposure to that stimulus.

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Origin of desensitization

First recorded in 1920–25; desensitize + -ation

Words nearby desensitization

desecration, deseed, desegregate, desegregation, deselect, desensitization, desensitize, Deseret, deserpidine, desert, desert a sinking ship

How to use desensitization in a sentence

Subjects in the “positive signals” group of Howe’s study actually had higher levels of peanut-specific antibodies in their blood by the end of the trial, indicating that the allergy desensitization itself was more successful.
Worried about COVID vaccine side effects? Try this simple trick.|Robin Blades|October 29, 2021|Popular-Science
We worked through that together, with a combination of traditional talk therapy and eye-motion desensitization and reprocessing.
We Need to Talk About Mental Health in the Mountains|Drew Petersen|June 30, 2021|Outside Online
Anxiety is offset by means of desensitization, assertiveness training, and sex therapy.
When You Don't Know Where to Turn|Steven J. Bartlett
Dr. Cantwell decided to use a combination of desensitization and assertiveness training with Anne.
When You Don't Know Where to Turn|Steven J. Bartlett

We have already briefly discussed them in Chapter 12 in connection with desensitization.
When You Don't Know Where to Turn|Steven J. Bartlett
In a deep trance state, it is possible to use hypnotic desensitization techniques to help you overcome anxieties and fears.
When You Don't Know Where to Turn|Steven J. Bartlett
As the basis for desensitization, deep relaxation is used to inhibit anxiety.
When You Don't Know Where to Turn|Steven J. Bartlett