Intense and irrational fears that can significantly disrupt daily life. These phobias often lead to avoidance behaviors and can cause extreme distress when confronted with the feared object or situation.
Related terms
Anxiety Disorders: A group of mental disorders characterized by excessive worry, fear, or uneasiness. Phobias are one type of anxiety disorder.
Exposure Therapy: A form of behavioral therapy that gradually exposes individuals to their feared objects or situations in order to reduce their anxiety over time.
Systematic Desensitization: Another form of therapy for phobias that involves teaching relaxation techniques while gradually exposing individuals to their fears in a controlled manner.