Phobias Flashcards
What is a phobia?
A type of anxiety, strong irrational fear of something that poses little to no real danger
When a pt has a phobia, what is he/she compelled to avoid?
The stressor
What does the pt with a phobia experience when coming into contact with stressor?
Severe panic
What are the risk factors of developing a phobia?
- Age 11-15, continuing on into adulthood
- twice as common in women
- family
- external locus of control
- traumatic event
- witnessing someone else experiencing a traumatic event
- unexpected panic attacks
What are the physical symptoms of a pt with a phobia?
- panic and fear
- rapid heartbeat
- SOB
- Trembling
- strong desire to get away
What are the three general categories of phobias?
- Specific phobias
- agoraphobia
- social anxiety disorder
What is agoraphobia?
Fear of open spaces
If a person has agoraphobia, what will he avoid doing?
Leaving the house
What are some specific phobias?
Acrophobia - fear of heights Arachnophobia - fear of spiders Aviophobia - fear of flying Claustrophobia - fear of small spaces Hematophobia - fear of blood
What is agoraphobia commonly associated with?
Panic disorder
What is another name for social anxiety disorder?
Social phobia
How is social anxiety disorder described?
Marked persistent fear of being judged
When is a phobia disorder diagnosed?
When the anxiety or fear significantly interfers with daily life
What type of pharmacology helps with phobias?
Benzodiazepines, SSRI’s, some antipsychotics
When is medication for phobias more effective?
When coupled with CBT
