Which of the following behavior-therapy techniques is typically used to reduce fear of heights?

• A. Aversion therapy
• B. Systematic desensitization
• C. Token economy
• D. Free association

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the goal of the therapy, which is to reduce the fear of heights, a specific phobia involving anxiety triggered by a particular stimulus.
2. Step 2: Review the behavior-therapy techniques listed: Aversion therapy, Systematic desensitization, Token economy, and Free association, and identify their primary purposes.
3. Step 3: Recognize that Aversion therapy is used to create a negative association with an unwanted behavior, not typically for reducing fears or phobias.
4. Step 4: Understand that Token economy is a reinforcement system used to increase desired behaviors, often in institutional settings, and is not designed for phobia treatment.
5. Step 5: Know that Systematic desensitization is a behavior-therapy technique that gradually exposes the person to the feared stimulus (heights) while teaching relaxation techniques, making it the appropriate method to reduce fear of heights.