Theories of Everything with Curt Jaimungal The End of Anxiety, PTSD, & Phobias | Merel Kindt
Apr 6, 2023
Merel Kindt, a clinical psychology professor at the University of Amsterdam, is a pioneer in fear extinction research. She dives into fascinating topics like the neurobiology of fear and groundbreaking treatments for anxiety disorders. Kindt discusses how beta-blockers and innovative exposure techniques can change emotional memories. They explore the effects of trauma on phobias, the role of sleep in fear processing, and even ponder if happiness can be 'removed' through therapy. A captivating look at confronting and overcoming our deepest fears!
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CBT Drawbacks
- Traditional cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for fear involves gradual exposure over time.
- However, it has drawbacks like long treatment duration and high relapse rates due to the original fear memory remaining intact.
Fear Memory Persistence
- Extinction learning in CBT doesn't erase the original fear memory, but forms a new competing memory.
- This explains why fear can easily return: the original fear memory is often stronger.
Clinical Inspiration
- Merel Kindt's clinical experience with patients suffering from fear, phobias, and PTSD influenced her research.
- She sought to find a way to weaken the original fear memory itself rather than just forming new memories.