Unit 3: Fears and Phobias

Front

What is a phobia?

Back

A phobia is an intense, irrational fear of a specific object, situation, or activity that leads to avoidance behavior.

Front

What is the 'fight or flight' response?

Back

The 'fight or flight' response is a physiological reaction that occurs in response to a perceived harmful event, attack, or threat to survival, preparing the body to either confront or flee from the danger.

Front

How do some people react positively to fear?

Back

Some people may find excitement or thrill in fear-inducing situations, such as roller coasters or horror movies, enjoying the adrenaline rush.

Front

What are common types of phobias?

Back

Common types of phobias include arachnophobia (fear of spiders), claustrophobia (fear of confined spaces), and acrophobia (fear of heights).

Front

What is the purpose of facing fears gradually?

Back

Gradually facing fears helps individuals to desensitize themselves to the fear, reducing anxiety and building confidence over time.

Front

What role does the brain play in fear responses?

Back

The brain processes threats and triggers the body's fear response, activating areas like the amygdala that are responsible for emotional reactions.

Front

What is the difference between fear and anxiety?

Back

Fear is a response to a specific threat, while anxiety is a more generalized feeling of apprehension or worry about potential future threats.

Front

What strategies can help overcome phobias?

Back

Strategies to overcome phobias include exposure therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and relaxation techniques.

Front

Why is it important to understand how fear works?

Back

Understanding how fear works can help individuals manage their reactions to fear and phobias, leading to better coping strategies.

Front

What is the significance of the amygdala in fear processing?

Back

The amygdala is a key brain structure involved in processing emotions, particularly fear, and triggering the body's fight or flight response.