Definition:
Active-imaginal exposure is similar to imaginal exposure, in that a person with a phobia is taught to vividly imagine a feared situation or object. Cognitive-behavioral techniques are then used to reduce anxiety and teach the person new ways of behaving in the situation. While imaginal exposure focuses only on the imagined situation, active-imaginal exposure allows the person to actually practice the new behaviors.
Examples: Marsha's elevator phobia responded very well to imaginal exposure, but she found it difficult to actually step onto a real elevator. Her therapist suggested that they try active-imaginal exposure, allowing Marsha to practice the steps involved in riding an elevator.
