Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)

Exposure and Response Prevention is a form of exposure therapy that encourages individuals to face their fears by allowing obsessive thoughts to occur without “neutralizing” them with compulsive behaviours like compulsions, avoidance, or escape behaviours.  

Response prevention is based on the learning theory of operant conditioning. According to this theory, when a behaviour is no longer reinforced it gradually disappears. In order for ERP to be effective, an individual not only makes the choice to confront their anxiety but must also make a commitment to not give in and engage in compulsive behaviours. 

For example, if a person is struggling with OCD surrounding germ contamination a typical exposure may involve shaking hands with someone (exposure) and then not washing their hands afterwards (response prevention). For an individual struggling with body dysmorphic disorder, an exposure exercise may include going into a shopping mall without makeup (exposure) and not looking in any mirrors (response prevention). 

Who can benefit from Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)?

ERP is used as a front-line treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) as well as other anxiety disorders and eating disorders as it can effectively help to decrease anxiety as well as the presence of obsessive and compulsive behaviours. 

To learn more about exposure and response prevention (ERP) and how it may be helpful for you, contact us. 

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