While on vacation, Juana eats bologna and then suffers an attack of car sickness. Now, when Juana even thinks of bologna, she feels sick to her stomach. How can Juana get to the point where she can once again eat bologna without feeling sick?
A) She can never again eat bologna without feeling sick.
B) She should eat a bologna sandwich right before she rides the rollercoaster at the local amusement park.
C) She should resume eating bologna in situations where she is not likely to get sick.
D) She should continue to avoid bologna and eventually she will start liking it again.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This is a type of exposure therapy where the person gradually exposes themselves to the feared stimulus in a safe environment until the fear subsides. By resuming eating bologna in situations where she is less likely to get sick, Juana can gradually desensitize herself to the association between bologna and sickness. It is important to start with small steps and gradually increase exposure until she can eventually eat bologna without feeling sick. Option A is not true for everyone as fear conditioning can be unlearned. Option B is not a safe or practical approach. Option D is not a reliable or evidence-based approach to overcome phobias.

While on Vacation, Juana Eats Bologna and Then Suffers an Attack