desensitization

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

noun

1. the act or process of desensitizing.
2. Physiology, Medicine/Medical. the elimination or reduction of natural or acquired reactivity or sensitivity to an external stimulus, as an allergen.
3. 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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of desensitization¹

First recorded in 1920–25; desensitize + -ation

Example Sentences

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.

From Popular-Science

We worked through that together, with a combination of traditional talk therapy and eye-motion desensitization and reprocessing.

From Outside Online

Anxiety is offset by means of desensitization, assertiveness training, and sex therapy.

From Project Gutenberg

Dr. Cantwell decided to use a combination of desensitization and assertiveness training with Anne.

From Project Gutenberg

We have already briefly discussed them in Chapter 12 in connection with desensitization.

From Project Gutenberg

In a deep trance state, it is possible to use hypnotic desensitization techniques to help you overcome anxieties and fears.

From Project Gutenberg

As the basis for desensitization, deep relaxation is used to inhibit anxiety.

From Project Gutenberg