Phobia in Young Children or Adults
Social interaction phobia: This is a very common phobia, especially in young adults, usually because of shyness or lack of confidence. Introverts might also be reluctant to interact with people at times. However, that does not result from phobia but is a trait. The first step towards overcoming the fear of social interaction is developing more friendships.
Fear of Heights or Acrophobia
Fear of heights, also known as acrophobia, generally occurs because of environmental and genetic factors. Someone with this phobia should avoid physical heights and avoid thinking about the same as it creates a fear situation inside the brain.
Fear of Fire or Pyrophobia
Fire phobia is generally known as Pyrophobia. It is a very common form of phobia since fire has a tremendous capacity to harm. Anxiety from fire or flames can be considered healthy and normal. But, those who have pyrophobia cannot stand small fires and usually feel unsafe. They feel anxious and get tensed even around controlled fire.
These are some common phobias present in 60 to 70% of humans. While some can overcome them, some carry them throughout their lives.
Some other forms of phobias are:
- Aquaphobia - Fear of water.
- Claustrophobia- Fear of enclosed space and many more.
- Fear of Darkness: Achluophobia is generally a fear of the dark.
What are the Symptoms of Phobia?
Phobias result in anxiety and an increased heart rate. It can also result in an upset stomach. In extreme cases, people might express the fear of losing their lives.
Are Phobias Curable?
One can try to overcome a phobia with the help of a psychologist or a counselor. However, one should keep in mind that it may take time and patience. However, one should keep in mind that not all phobias are curable.
Conclusion
Phobias can often result from past experiences. Sometimes one incident is enough to create room for fear in someone’s mind, especially children. Therefore, it is essential to ask your children if there is a specific reason behind their fears. Seek professional help if necessary. Fear can be debilitating for people. If you address a phobia developing in your child, try to address the matter and get to the root of the cause before it gets worse.
FAQs
1. What is a phobia?
A phobia is the fear of a particular thing or a situation. It can be a fear of water, heights, fire, or even going out. Phobias often result from traumatic events during childhood.
2. State some ways to help a child with a phobia.
Here are a few ways to deal with someone who has any form of phobia:
- Be non-judgemental and supportive.
- Make them take part in therapy.
- Take them to counseling sessions.
- Ensure regular checkups with the healthcare provider.
3. How can you tell if a person has a phobia?
Some physical symptoms are:
- Sweating
- Cold or hot flushes
- Short of breath
- Nausea
- Feels like choking
- Feeling lightheaded and dizzy
4. State three types of phobia
There are three primary types of phobias that can be subclassified. They are:
- Agoraphobia
- Social phobia
- Specific phobia