This case describes the use of emotive imagery and behavioral techniques in treating a 10-year-old boy's nocturnal fear of ghosts and zombies. His anxiety had led to nightmares and avoidance of sleeping in his bedroom. To a significant degree, the intervention was led by the child. With the therapist's support, the child developed and deployed a number of imaginary characters during and between sessions to reduce his sense of threat about ghosts and zombies. Relaxation, boundary setting, and an incentive program were also implemented to target residual avoidant behavior. Self-reported anxiety measured by a diary and on the Spence Children's Anxiety Scale reduced during the course of treatment. Furthermore, the frequency of his nightmares decreased and the number of nights that he spent in his bedroom increased. The case highlights the effectiveness of emotive imagery in treating anxiety surrounding imaginary creatures in children. It also suggests that behavioral techniques may also be required to effectively promote behavior change.
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