What is the definition of a phobia?

The definition of a phobia is characterized by an intense and irrational fear of a specific object or situation. This fear is often disproportionate to the actual danger posed by the object or circumstance and can lead to significant distress and avoidance behavior. For example, someone with a phobia of spiders may experience severe anxiety at the mere thought of a spider, even if there is no immediate threat.

This classification differentiates phobias from broader anxiety disorders, which encompass a wider range of symptoms and presentations. While a general anxiety disorder involves pervasive and excessive worry, a phobia is more focused and specific in nature.

Additionally, social anxiety, which involves fear of social interactions, falls under a different category; it is not limited to a specific object or situation but rather deals with interaction and performance anxiety in social settings. Lastly, a temporary state of fear is not representative of a phobia, as phobias are persistent and typically endure over an extended period, significantly impacting an individual’s quality of life.