Overwhelmexposure
Overwhelmexposure is a term used in psychology and related fields to describe the deliberate exposure of an individual to stimuli that are perceived as overwhelmingly challenging, with the aim of examining or enhancing coping, resilience, or adaptability. The concept generalizes exposure principles to extreme or multisensory challenges, rather than gradual or moderate stressors alone.
Origin and usage: The term is not widely standardized or established in core manuals, but has appeared
Implementation: In practice, overwhelmexposure involves careful assessment of baseline sensitivity and individual risk, followed by controlled
Mechanisms and outcomes: Potential mechanisms include habituation to extreme stimuli, cognitive reappraisal, improved tolerance to uncertainty,
Risks and limitations: Possible adverse effects include retraumatization, excessive anxiety, cognitive overload, and physical strain. Ethical
See also: Exposure therapy, flooding, sensory overload, stress inoculation training, resilience.