Specific Phobia
- A-B
- C-D
- E-F
- G-H
- I-J
- K-L
- M-N
- O-P
- Q-R
- S-T
- U-V
- W-X
- Y-Z
This is an anxiety disorder characterized by an intense, irrational fear of a specific object or situation. This fear is often disproportionate to the actual danger posed and can lead to avoidance behaviors or enduring the situation with intense anxiety.
Intense fear and anxiety: A strong, immediate fear response upon encountering the feared object or situation.
Unreasonable fear: The fear is recognized as excessive or disproportionate to the actual danger posed.
Avoidance: Individuals actively avoid the feared object or situation or endure it with extreme anxiety.
Physical symptoms: These can include rapid heart rate, sweating, trembling, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath.
Cognitive symptoms: These may involve thoughts like “This plane will crash” or “The dog will bite me”.
Behavioral symptoms: This can include tantrums (in children), clinging, and crying.
Impairment: The fear and avoidance cause significant distress or interfere with daily functioning (work, school, social activities). **The symptoms must be persistent, typically lasting for at least six months.