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Chapter 6.3 - Specific Phobias

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  04 April 2024

By
Julius Burkauskas ,
Naomi A. Fineberg ,
Arun Enara ,
Giovanna Cirnigliaro  and
Lynne M. Drummond
Edited by
David Kingdon ,
Paul Rowlands  and
George Stein
David Kingdon
Affiliation:
University of Southampton
Paul Rowlands
Affiliation:
Derbyshire Healthcare NHS foundation Trust
George Stein
Affiliation:
Emeritus of the Princess Royal University Hospital
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Summary

Specific phobia is a condition characterised by an intense reaction of fear and avoidance to a situation or an object perceived as dangerous. Individuals might rationally understand the situation is not in reality dangerous, but often, even the thought of the specific situation or object evokes intense anxiety. Various studies report the lifetime prevalence of specific phobia, which ranges from 3 to 15 per cent, with incidence predominantly occurring during adolescence. This disorder often leads to a reduction in the quality of life and can cause significant functional impairment. Various theories from genetic to psychological, including those drawing inferences from psychodynamic and cognitive behavioural therapies, offer explanations about the aetiology of specific phobias. Exposure therapy and SSRIs are recognised treatment options for individuals with specific phobias.

Keywords

specific phobiablood and injury phobiaexposure therapy
Type
Chapter
Information
Seminars in General Adult Psychiatry , pp. 324 - 333
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2024

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References

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Further Reading

Drummond, LM. CBT for Adults. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press/Royal College of Psychiatrists; 2018.Google Scholar

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