What is is a phobia? Basically explained, it is an irrational fear or concern of certain objects, situations or people. It can take many forms, not all of which seem rational to others. Claustrophobia tends to be the most universally recognized of all phobias. What causes phobias however is still a bit of a medical mystery.
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.
Studies have shown direct correlation between your own personal fears and those of your parents. These studies also appear to have discovered that children can “learn” phobias by watching their parents reactions to their own fears.
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 has been a prominent factor in studies of phobia development. Children ages 11 to 15 are far more likely to develop social phobias then any other age group. After age 25 your risk of developing one is almost zero. However, those in the mid twenty range start to manifest fears of situations such as crossing bridges, flying in airplanes or riding in elevators.
Being male or female also plays a role in all of this. Women appear to suffer from social disorders more often then men do, but it is also true that men have the ability to mask their anxiety better especially by using alcohol.
No matter what phobias you suffer from their is professional help out there for you. Please do not turn to drugs and alcohol as a way to cope with your situation. The first step to being free from that fear is in reaching out for help and accepting what is offered to you. Each person will require unique treatment.
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