What is the difference between flooding and systematic desensitization therapy?

Flooding and systematic desensitization are both exposure therapy techniques used to treat phobias and anxiety disorders, but they differ in approach. Flooding involves exposing the individual to their feared object or situation at full intensity for an extended period, aiming to overwhelm and extinguish the fear response. In contrast, systematic desensitization gradually introduces the feared stimulus through a hierarchy of anxiety-provoking scenariOS while teaching relaxation techniques to manage anxiety. This gradual exposure helps individuals build coping skills and reduces fear over time.