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10 Common Phobias

Phobias: A Closer Look

Phobias: A Closer Look

We all experience fleeting moments of fear. But phobias are more than that. A phobia is a long-lasting fear of something that poses very little danger — a fear so intense that it can trigger physical and psychological reactions, including uncontrollable anxiety, extreme avoidance of certain objects or situations and the inability to function normally in daily life.

While exactly what causes a phobia is still unknown, most experts agree that brain chemicals, genetics and traumatic experiences can all influence the development of phobias.

Click “next” to take a closer look at 10 common phobias.

By Angela Hiatt. Published on February 21, 2012. Angela is a California-based freelance writer and social media editor.