A "feared object" refers to an item, animal, or situation that causes intense fear or anxiety in an individual. It is something the person avoids or tries to escape from due to their phobia.
Exposure therapy is a technique used in psychology to treat phobias by gradually exposing patients to their feared objects or situations in a controlled and safe environment.
Systematic desensitization is another therapy technique used to reduce anxiety associated with phobias by teaching relaxation skills while gradually exposing individuals to their feared objects or situations.