Repeated cue exposure effects on subjective and physiological indices of chocolate craving

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of repeated unreinforced exposure to chocolate cues in persons reporting chocolate craving. Participants in the experimental group (n=40) received 10 consecutive brief exposures to chocolate cues in each of two sessions, separated by 1–3 days. Control participants (n=18) received two exposures at the start and end of each session. Chocolate craving was measured (alternately) through subjective report and the amount of saliva secretion to chocolate cues. Results showed a between-sessions decrease in both craving measures in the experimental group, whereas no differences in craving between sessions were observed in the control group. These results provide evidence for the effects of cue exposure treatment in chocolate craving.