counterconditioning
noun
coun·ter·con·di·tion·ing
ˌkau̇n-tər-kən-ˈdi-sh(ə-)niŋ 
: conditioning in order to replace an undesirable response (such as fear) to a stimulus (such as an engagement in public speaking) by a favorable one
Examples of counterconditioning in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
For example, separation anxiety can be treated with behavior modification techniques such as desensitization and counterconditioning.
—
Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 17 Oct. 2022
Instead, use gradual desensitization and counterconditioning to help reduce her stress and be better able to manage it in scary situations.
—Star Tribune, 18 Dec. 2020
Dogs who received this counterconditioning were 70 percent less scared during fireworks, on average, than dogs who did not.
—Courtney Sexton, Smithsonian Magazine, 26 June 2020
Through counterconditioning, visitors gradually assume a new meaning as the dog associates people coming over with a good thing, in this case yummy food.
—Julie Hecht, Scientific American, 1 May 2017
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Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 17 Oct. 2022
Instead, use gradual desensitization and counterconditioning to help reduce her stress and be better able to manage it in scary situations.
—Star Tribune, 18 Dec. 2020
Dogs who received this counterconditioning were 70 percent less scared during fireworks, on average, than dogs who did not.
—Courtney Sexton, Smithsonian Magazine, 26 June 2020
Through counterconditioning, visitors gradually assume a new meaning as the dog associates people coming over with a good thing, in this case yummy food.
—Julie Hecht, Scientific American, 1 May 2017
Cite this Entry
“Counterconditioning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/counterconditioning. Accessed 4 Nov. 2025.
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