Psychology with Dr. Tom: Specific Phobias.

Today’s assignment is to learn more about human Specific Phobias.

Specific Phobias can be effectively treated through Cognitive Behavior Therapy. However, successful treatment requires a motivated client who is willing to work hard and do homework assignments.

Please learn the DSM-5 definition of a Specific Phobia and then study more on the web page below. 

Notice that Phobias are irrational fears. From a practical perspective, if the fear does not interfere with living life effectively and gaining its important rewards, individuals are generally not motivated to undergo treatment.

"A specific phobia is an intense, persistent, irrational fear of a specific object, situation, or activity, or person. Usually, the fear is proportionally greater than the actual danger or threat. People with specific phobias are highly distressed about having the fear, and often will go to great lengths to avoid the object or situation in question. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), the year-long community prevalence estimate for specific phobias is approximately 7%-9%."

https://www.med.upenn.edu/ctsa/phobias_symptoms.html

V. Thomas Mawhinney, Ph.D., 4/29/18

Practicing Psychologist and Professor Emeritus of Psychology, Indiana University South Bend

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