After a brief explanation of implosive theory and technique, the case reports and experimental investigations of implosive therapy and flooding procedures with human subjects are critically reviewed. Much of the research has produced confusing and contradictory results and these findings are discussed in terms of the type of response rehearsed in therapy, exposure time, and cognitive factors. However, since a majority of the experimental reports are so badly confounded, interpretation of the literature is exceedingly difficult. It is concluded that there is, at present, no convincing evidence of the effectiveness of implosion or flooding with human subjects nor is there any evidence that the techniques are superior to systematic desensitization. In addition, the theoretical basis of implosive therapy appears to be unsupported. Finally, serious realistic and ethical questions are raised in regard to the desirability of the clinical use of implosive procedures.

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