Behavioral treatment of phobic avoidance in multiple chemical sensitivity

J Behav Ther Exp Psychiatry. 1994 Sep;25(3):197-209. doi: 10.1016/0005-7916(94)90020-5.

Abstract

The clinical ecology model of environmental illness, or multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS), and particularly the theoretical assumptions, diagnostic procedures, and therapeutic recommendations promulgated by clinical ecologists are reviewed. No scientific evidence is found for their claims. MCS is conceptualized, instead, as a phobic disorder explicable in terms of the two-factor model of avoidance. Three cases of MCS are discussed in light of this model, and a comprehensive behavioral treatment package that includes biofeedback-assisted in vivo desensitization and cognitive restructuring is proposed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Air Pollutants, Occupational / adverse effects
  • Avoidance Learning*
  • Behavior Therapy / methods*
  • Biofeedback, Psychology / methods
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / methods
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Desensitization, Psychologic / methods
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Multiple Chemical Sensitivity / psychology
  • Multiple Chemical Sensitivity / therapy*
  • Occupational Diseases / psychology
  • Occupational Diseases / therapy
  • Occupational Exposure / adverse effects
  • Phobic Disorders / psychology
  • Phobic Disorders / therapy*

Substances

  • Air Pollutants, Occupational