Irrational Fear
Definition
Irrational fear, also known as a phobia, refers to an intense and irrational fear of a specific object or situation. This fear is usually excessive and persistent, causing significant distress or impairment in daily life.
Related terms
Exposure Therapy: A psychological intervention method that involves gradually exposing the individual to the feared object or situation in a controlled and safe environment to reduce anxiety and fear.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A therapeutic approach that focuses on identifying and challenging irrational thoughts and beliefs associated with the phobia, while also incorporating behavioral techniques to gradually confront the feared object or situation.
Systematic Desensitization: A technique used in therapy where individuals learn relaxation techniques while gradually being exposed to their fears. This helps them replace anxiety with feelings of calmness when encountering the feared object or situation.
"Irrational Fear" appears in:
Practice Questions (5)
Which psychological intervention method best applies to treating a patient with an irrational fear of spiders?
How would Carl Jung's concept of the collective unconscious explain a person's irrational fear of snakes even without previous traumatic experiences?
According to Freud's Psychoanalytic Theory, what might underlie someone's irrational fear of spiders?
Which psychological disorder is most associated with intense, irrational fear or anxiety triggered by a specific object or situation?
If a client has an irrational fear of elevators due to a traumatic childhood experience, what intervention methodology would the Psychodynamic therapy approach most likely utilize?
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About Us
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CCPA Privacy Policy
Resources
Cram Mode
AP Score Calculators
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Glossary
Cram Events
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Help Center
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.