Which intervention focuses on teaching relaxation techniques to reduce arousal?

• A. Collaborative Therapeutic Homework
• B. Relaxation training
• C. Systematic Desensitization
• D. Exposure & Ritual Prevention

Answer: (B)

Teaching relaxation techniques to reduce arousal centers on giving the child tools to calm the body and lower physiological activation. Relaxation training teaches skills such as diaphragmatic breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided imagery that directly reduce heart rate, muscle tension, and overall arousal, helping the child engage more effectively in activities and respond more adaptively to sensory input. In pediatric OT, these skills support self-regulation and better tolerance of sensory experiences by shifting the nervous system toward a calmer state before or during challenging tasks. While other approaches may use relaxation as part of a broader method, they are not focused primarily on teaching these techniques to reduce arousal, making relaxation training the best fit for this goal.