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1 results

  • Chapter 6.3 - Specific Phobias

  • Edited by David Kingdon, University of Southampton, Paul Rowlands, Derbyshire Healthcare NHS foundation Trust, George Stein, Emeritus of the Princess Royal University Hospital
  • Book:
    Seminars in General Adult Psychiatry
    Published online:
    04 April 2024
    Print publication:
    18 April 2024, pp 324-333

  • 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.