mental disorders

Question 1

define phobia

Answer 1

a group of mental disorders characterised by high levels of anxiety in response to a particular stimulus or group of stimuli. the anxiety interferes with normal living.

Question 2

outline the emotional characteristics of phobias

Answer 2

the primary emotional characteristic of a phobia is fear that is marked and persistent, and is likely to be excessive and unreasonable. this prevents the sufferer relaxing, and makes it difficult to experience any positive emotion.

• anxiety and panic -> these emotions are cued by the presence or anticipation of the phobia and are out of proportion to the actual danger posed.

Question 3

outline the behavioural characteristics of phobias

Answer 3

avoidance. this interferes significantly with the person’s normal routine, and there is marked distress about having the phobia. this distinguishes phobias from more everyday fears that do not interfere with normal day to day living.

• panic
• endurance ‘flight or freeze’

Question 4

outline the cognitive characteristics of a phobia

Answer 4

• selective attention to the phobic stimulus
• irrational beliefs

recognition that their fear is excessive, thus distinguishes between a phobia and a delusional mental illness where the individual is not aware of the unreasonableness of their behaviour.