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STRESS INOCULATION THERAPY
===''STRESS INOCULATION THERAPY (SIT) is a Psychotherapeutic method for handling stressful life events, and reducing anxiety levels. It is a sub form of Cognitive Behavioral therapy, and was promoted by DR. Donald Meichenbaum. The theory suggest that stressful events are caused do to cognitive malfunctions, when cognitions are not processed correctly. In other words, the Cognitive appraisal evaluates the possible coping resources of one's as minor to to the performance demands of the action needed to be executed .''=== The term inoculation is similar to the medical procedure we are familiar with; when injecting a mild-moderate dose of a disease, the body formes stronger immune system behaviors. SIT works in a similar mechanism and believes a mild exposure to stress during the training can teach clients new coping mechanisms and reactions in real life situations.

Stress inoculation therapy is comprised of 3 Phases: '''1. Conceptualization, 2. Skill Training, 3. Real Life Applications.'''

1.Conceptualization: this phase concludes two sub phases; create a therapeutic alliance between the patient and the therapist and psychoeducation. In order to generate a successful process, a trustful alliance ought to be formed. The therapist should establish rapport and help the patient find their internal coping resources against stressful times. After mutual trust is acquired, Psychoeducation is used. it refers to providing useful information for the patient on the causes regarding stressful events. It demonstrates how cognitions, and thinking patterns and mechanisms may trigger stress and elevate anxiety. The patient acquires information on the process in which his malformed cognitions may eventually elevate his stress levels.

2.Skill Training: deals with proving the patient with various cognitive and emotional coping skills in which he will be able to use in stressful times to diminish levels of stress. This process is tailored to each patient, and every client has its own preferred and suitable coping style. In addition, therapists should mutually explore with the patient whether there are any interpersonal factors interfering him to use any coping skills. Moreover, Problem solving techniques and solutions should be acquired, in order to use them in real life situations to reduce stress levels. This may include anger control, cognitive restructuring, relaxation techniques and humor.

3.Real Life Applications :

The third phase deals with graduated exposure to real life stressful events so the patient would practice and sharpen his coping mechanisms. Possible ways to produce high level events are by role playing and imagery and behavioral rehearsal. This gradual exposure purpose is to increase the patient's self-efficacy in his coping ability. Furthermore, in this part maintenance and generalization are needed. The more the client will practice the different stages through stressful events, the more prepared and self-efficacy he will own. An example for that might be the client will involve family, friends or peers as self-help groups and train with them, or even become a trainer of someone with a similar problem. The client needs to expand their coping resources to a various of their own stressor events. The therapist should also guide the client to develop possible failure strategies which would prevent possible relapses.

Studies
SIT may apply to various populations. A study on law school students showed that SIT help in decreasing their emotional and stress levels and improved their LAST scores. SIT has also been found useful in reducing PTSD symptoms in female assault victims.