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Phobic disorder, also known as anxiety hysteria, or simply phobia, is at the root of many psychological disorders. Affected individuals often suffer from low self-esteem at a subconscious level, primarily due to a lack of a sense of security.
In this chapter, we will focus on the diagnostic standards for phobic disorders.
We should not behave like a dripping tap, spreading idle talk that we or anyone else may be suffering from a phobia. No one should be labeled as such without proper clinical certification. Professional conclusions can only be made when a patient’s condition aligns with a set of certified diagnostic standards.
So, how is such a diagnosis made in a psychiatric context?
Phobic disorders are often linked to psychological development in childhood. Thus, it is essential to provide children with an environment that fosters healthy emotional and behavioral growth. Children should be encouraged to face difficulties head-on rather than avoiding or delaying them. At the same time, their fears and emotions must be acknowledged with empathy and respect.
Children should never be met with cold or dismissive responses when expressing their fears. Emotions are natural human attributes, and it is only right to address them with understanding.
On the other hand, reckless, callous, inconsiderate, or arrogant reactions do not reflect a well-balanced and healthy character. Awe, fear, respect, and veneration should be observed and instilled appropriately.
We must support and encourage children to overcome irrational fears, helping them grow into individuals who are resilient, persistent, composed, open-minded, and unafraid to confront life’s harsh realities. These strengths equip them with the ability to combat phobic disorders effectively.
Adults should guide them so they do not develop the habit of avoiding fears altogether.
Evaluate yourself: Identify the nature and cause of the fears holding you back and realign your mindset accordingly. By drawing from newfound strengths, you can prevent irrational fears from harming you and your loved ones.
Let me share how I overcame my fear of lizards. It all started when a lizard landed on my head and was shooed away by my younger brother. Unbeknownst to me, its wriggling tail was left behind, sending me into a state of panic. Fortunately, my brother removed it with a stick.
For a long time afterward, I found myself shampooing daily, feeling as if the lizard was still there. I kept seeing lizards everywhere, on ceilings and carpets, no matter where I went.
The turning point came when I discovered a dead lizard crushed by my car door. I literally jumped out of my skin! Determined to rid myself of this fear, I began observing the flattened remains from a safe distance. Over time, I mustered enough courage to confront my fear. Before I knew it, I had overcome my phobia of lizards—and eventually, even of snakes!
Parental attitude plays a crucial role in preventing phobias from taking hold. Unfortunately, many parents dismiss their children’s fears as "overreactions," ignoring them and allowing the issue to worsen over time.
Let’s consider a more positive approach. Imagine a parent reassuring a child by explaining how small and vulnerable a feared creature actually is. If the child expresses discomfort over its cold and clammy skin, the parent can empathize and then introduce humor, explaining how the creature catches mosquitoes by extending its tongue. “That’s one less mosquito biting your cheeks!”
Parents can further reassure their children by adding humor, saying, “They can’t eat you because you’re too big!” This type of response helps allay fears and encourages a healthier perspective.