The Characteristics of Phobias Flashcards
1
Q
Which 3 phobias are recognised by the DSM-5?
A
- Specific: the fear of a specific object or situation
- Agoraphobia: the fear of going outside or in public spaces
- Social Anxiety: the fear of social situations
2
Q
What are 3 behavioural characteristics of a phobia?
A
- Physical Panic, such as screaming or running away
- Avoidance: making a conscious effort to prevent coming into contact with the phobic stimulus
- Endurance: consciously remaining in the presence of the phobic stimulus to ‘keep an eye on it’
3
Q
What are 2 emotional characteristics of a phobia?
A
- Excessive anxiety
- Excessive fear induced by the phobic stimulus, sometimes even just be thinking about it
4
Q
What are 3 cognitive characteristics of a phobia?
A
- Selective Attention: the phobic stimulus has complete, undivided attention when present or posed
- Irrational Beliefs regarding the phobic stimulus
- Cognitive Distortions regarding the phobic stimulus, such as unrealistic and inaccurate perceptions
5
Q
What are the emotional characteristics of a phobia disproportionate to?
A
Any genuine threat posed
