Anxiety & Panic Disorders Health Center

Specific Phobias

What Causes Specific Phobias?

The exact cause of specific phobias is not known, but most appear to be associated with a traumatic experience or a learned reaction. For example, a person who has a frightening or threatening experience with an animal, such as an attack or being bitten, can develop a specific phobia. Witnessing a traumatic event in which others experience harm or extreme fear can also cause a specific phobia, as can receiving information or repeated warnings about potentially dangerous situations or animals.

Fear can be learned from others, as well. A child whose parents react with fear and anxiety to certain objects or situations is likely to also respond to those objects with fear.

How Are Specific Phobias Diagnosed?

If symptoms of a specific phobia are present, the doctor will begin an evaluation by performing a complete medical history and physical exam. Although there are no lab tests to specifically diagnose specific phobias, the doctor may use various tests to make sure that a physical illness isn't the cause of the symptoms.

If no physical illness is found, you may be referred to a psychiatrist or psychologist, mental health professionals who are specially trained to diagnose and treat mental illnesses. Psychiatrists and psychologists use specially designed interview and assessment tools to evaluate a person for a specific phobia.

The doctor bases his or her diagnosis of specific phobias on reported symptoms, including any problems with functioning caused by the symptoms. A specific phobia is diagnosed if the person's fear and anxiety are particularly distressing or if they interfere with his or her daily routine, including school, work, social activities, and relationships.

How Are Specific Phobias Treated?

Treatment for specific phobias may include one or a combination of:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy: Treatment for specific phobias involves a type of cognitive behavioral therapy, either desensitization or exposure, in which patients are gradually exposed to what frightens them until their fear begins to fade.
• Medication: Tranquilizers (benzodiazepines) such as Ativan, Librium, Valium, and Xanax may be prescribed temporarily to help reduce severe anxiety. Antidepressants, such as Prozac and Zoloft can also be used. 
• Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, may also help reduce anxiety symptoms.

What Is the Outlook for People With Specific Phobias?

For most people, specific phobias can be successfully treated with therapy and, in some cases, medication.

Can Specific Phobias Be Prevented?

Although many specific phobias cannot be prevented, early intervention and treatment following a traumatic experience, such as an animal attack, may prevent the person from developing a severe anxiety disorder.