Describe the difference between a common fear and a phobia. Select and describe a specific phobia. What are some possible causes for the phobia described? List and describe some possible treatments.
A common fear and a phobia.
Full Answer Section
Specific phobia
A specific phobia is a type of phobia that is focused on a specific object or situation. Some of the most common specific phobias include:
- Acrophobia: Fear of heights
- Arachnophobia: Fear of spiders
- Claustrophobia: Fear of enclosed spaces
- Cynophobia: Fear of dogs
- Hematophobia: Fear of blood
- Hydrophobia: Fear of water
- Musophobia: Fear of mice
- Trypanophobia: Fear of needles
- Genetics: Some people may be more genetically predisposed to developing phobias.
- Learning: Phobias can be learned through classical conditioning, in which a person associates a neutral stimulus with a fear-inducing stimulus. For example, a person who is bitten by a dog as a child may develop a phobia of dogs.
- Traumatic experiences: Phobias can also be caused by traumatic experiences, such as a near-death experience or a sexual assault.
- Exposure therapy: Exposure therapy is a type of therapy that involves gradually exposing the person to the feared object or situation in a safe and controlled environment. This can help the person to overcome their fear and anxiety.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that focuses on changing the person's thoughts and behaviors related to the phobia. This can help the person to challenge their negative thoughts and learn new coping skills.
- Medication: In some cases, medication may be used to treat phobias. However, medication is usually not the first line of treatment.
Sample Answer
A common fear is a normal reaction to something that is perceived as a threat. It is a natural emotion that helps us to stay safe. Common fears can be things like spiders, heights, or public speaking.
Phobia
A phobia is an excessive fear or anxiety related to a specific object or situation that is out of proportion to the actual danger it presents. Phobias can cause significant distress and interfere with a person's ability to function in everyday life.
Specific phobia