In vivo desensitization of a severe driving phobia through radio contact with telemonitoring of neurophysiological reactions

A 34 year-old man with a severe driving phobia was treated by in vivo desensitization. A radio transceiver was used to provide the anxiety inhibiting effects of voice contact during exposure to phobic driving experiences. Transceivers were linked to a Telemonitor apparatus programmed to broadcast heartbeat and GSR readings automatically every 15 minutes or on demand, each of 10 seconds duration. The therapist was therefore in touch with the subjective and physiological arousal of the patient from distances up to 7 miles. This allowed him to conduct more efficiently a program of in vivo graduated exposure. Treatment effects were maintained at a 9-month follow-up.