response prevention
A behavioral therapy technique that involves preventing the patient from performing compulsive or avoidance behaviors.
Full Definition
Response prevention is a key component of exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy, primarily used in treating obsessive-compulsive disorder and anxiety disorders. The technique involves deliberately blocking or refraining from performing compulsive rituals, safety behaviors, or avoidance responses that typically follow obsessive thoughts or anxiety-provoking situations. When combined with exposure exercises, response prevention helps break the cycle of anxiety and compulsive behavior by demonstrating that feared consequences do not occur when the compulsive response is prevented. This process facilitates habituation and reduces the reinforcing nature of compulsive behaviors.
Usage
Usage note: Usually paired with exposure therapy as 'exposure and response prevention' (ERP).
In Context
- "The patient practiced response prevention by refraining from hand-washing rituals despite experiencing contamination obsessions." — Psychotherapy progress note
- "Response prevention exercises were gradually increased in duration as the patient's tolerance for anxiety improved." — Treatment plan update