The simple definition of a phobia is basically just an irrational fear of something. In today's society it is easy to find at least one phobia for every person you encounter. More common phobias include claustrophobia and agoraphobia. What causes phobias though is still an often pondered question.
The quest to find the real causes behind phobias has provided us with some useful information, but there is still several things that we do not know. What we do know, however, is that brain chemicals, genetics and trauma all play a role in determining the phobias you may have.
There also appears to be a connection between your fears and those that your parents suffer from. An even more interesting assumption is that children often "learn" there phobias from their caregivers by watching reactions to certain situations while growing up.
We don't have a way to test to see what types of phobias we will have right now but we do know that there are a number of risk factors that let us know some people have an increased chance of developing one.
Age seems to play a major role in the manifestation of phobias. Social disorders occur most often during childhood and almost never after the age of 25. Situational phobias like a fear of bridges, elevators or flying tend to show themselves in a person's mid-20's.
Women are more likely to show signs of social disorders because of the fact that men tend to hide their emotion and anxiety a bit better, usually involving alcohol. This doesn't mean that men aren't affected, just that they are better at disguising the outward symptoms.
Drugs and alcohol should never be used to help you handle your phobia. At best, they are a temporary solution and at worst they are likely to have side effects. Some more severe irrational fears may require professional help and medication. Seeking help can also prevent you from become depressed about your situation. - 30309
The quest to find the real causes behind phobias has provided us with some useful information, but there is still several things that we do not know. What we do know, however, is that brain chemicals, genetics and trauma all play a role in determining the phobias you may have.
There also appears to be a connection between your fears and those that your parents suffer from. An even more interesting assumption is that children often "learn" there phobias from their caregivers by watching reactions to certain situations while growing up.
We don't have a way to test to see what types of phobias we will have right now but we do know that there are a number of risk factors that let us know some people have an increased chance of developing one.
Age seems to play a major role in the manifestation of phobias. Social disorders occur most often during childhood and almost never after the age of 25. Situational phobias like a fear of bridges, elevators or flying tend to show themselves in a person's mid-20's.
Women are more likely to show signs of social disorders because of the fact that men tend to hide their emotion and anxiety a bit better, usually involving alcohol. This doesn't mean that men aren't affected, just that they are better at disguising the outward symptoms.
Drugs and alcohol should never be used to help you handle your phobia. At best, they are a temporary solution and at worst they are likely to have side effects. Some more severe irrational fears may require professional help and medication. Seeking help can also prevent you from become depressed about your situation. - 30309
