To Fear Or Not To Fear: PHOBIAS

To Fear Or Not To Fear: PHOBIAS

In an attempt to understand how phobias develop, introduction to psychology class members were surveyed about their susceptibility to different types of fears or phobias. Evidence indicated that fears and phobias may emerge in either direct or indirect conditioning and in individuals who possess a particular psychological or emotional makeup. Those more prone are either highly emotional or extremely shy. Those less susceptible are more independent, career oriented and highly educated. Class survey results revealed that the number one fear in this particular class was Entomophobia or fear of bugs or insects. In fact, 44% of the class admitted to this phobia, while 19% were afraid of heights (Acrophobia). Another 11% evidenced Thanatophobia or fear of being in situations where death could result or anything to do with death. Seven percent expressed a fear of needles and the remaining few cited various other fears or phobias, such as fear of drugs, speaking before crowds, and love.