Definition:
A specific phobia is a type of anxiety disorder. To have a diagnosis of specific phobia, you need to meet the following criteria, according to the DSM-IV:
- Strong and constant fear that is excessive or more than what would be expected when in the presence (or anticipation) of a specific object or situation (for example, fear of flying, fear of enclosed spaces, fear of a snake, fear of getting a shot).
- Being confronted with the feared object or situation almost always causes fear and anxiety, maybe even a panic attack.
- The fear is recognized as being excessive or more than what other people might experience.
- The anxiety and fear leads to the avoidance of the feared object or situation.
- The anxiety and fear impacts a person's life, negatively affecting a person's job, relationships, or school.
- The anxiety is not due to the experience of another anxiety disorder.
Also Known As: Simple Phobia
