Phobias

Question 1

What is the definition of a phobia?

Answer 1

A phobia is an irrational fear of an object or situation.

Question 2

What percentage of people are said to suffer from a phobia in their lifetime?

Answer 2

It is estimated that approximately 10% of people will suffer from a phobia at some point. Women are twice as likely to experience one. Phobias often arise in childhood and are long lasting and generally people know their fears are irrational but cannot control them.

Question 3

What is the definition of a simple phobia?

Answer 3

Simple phobias can be defined as being specific to things or environments.

Question 4

What is the definition of a social phobia?

Answer 4

Social phobias can be defined as occuring in social situations when people can become over anxious.

Question 5

What is the definition of agoraphobia?

Answer 5

Agoraphobia is the fear of leaving home or a safe place.

Question 6

What are some examples of simple phobias?

Answer 6

Simple phobias are where suffers have fears of specific things and environments. e.g.
- animal phobias
- injury phobias
- situational phobias
- natural environment phobias

Question 7

What are some examples of social phobias?

Answer 7

Social phobias are a commonly experiences type of phobia, and involve being over - anxious in social situations e.g.
- performance phobias
- interaction phobias
- generalised phobias

Question 8

What can agoraphobia be brought on by?

Answer 8

Agoraphobia can be brought on by simple phobias such as a fear of containment or social embarassment, therefore it is a natural response to make in such situations . These responses include finding and staying in a safe place, usually/generally at home.