Aversion Relief

Description of Strategy

Aversive conditioning is intended to produce a conditioned aversion to the target dysfunctional behavior. Aversion therapy includes a variety of specific techniques based on both classical and operant conditioning paradigms. An array of aversive stimuli have been used, the most popular of which were electric shock and nauseaor apnea-inducing substances. Covert sensitization also relies on aversive conditioning and is called “covert” because neither the undesirable stimulus nor the aversive stimulus is physically present; they are presented in imagination only. “Sensitization” refers to the intention to build up an avoidance response to the undesirable stimulus.

In aversion relief, the subject is enabled to stop the aversive stimulus by performing more appropriate behavior. This cessation, in turn, leads to relief. For example, ...