Exploring the neural basis of fear produced by mental imagery: imaginal exposure in individuals fearful of spiders.

ABSTRACT: Imaginal exposure, i.e. reducing fear using exposure to mental imagery, is a widely used psychological treatment technique for dysfunctional fears. Yet, little is known about its underlying neural mechanisms. The present study examines the neural basis of imaginal exposure using a novel experimental procedure consisting of repeated exposure to flashpoint mental imagery of phobic (spiders) and neutral (gloves) stimuli. Whether the 10 min long imaginal exposure procedure could reduce fear responses was examined one week later. Thirty participants fearful of spiders underwent the experimental procedure. Neural activity was assessed using functional magnetic resonance imaging (session 1). Subjective fear and skin conductance responses were measured throughout the study (sessions 1 and 2). Imag

SUBMITTER: Hoppe JM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7741089 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature