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id it

have to be snakes...

Ophidiophobia is the abnormal fear of snakes.

Research suggests that this phobia, affecting
nearly one-third of the population, is the product
of evolutionary dynamics, when our early ancestors
had to adapt to an environment predominantly occupied
by reptiles. While this phobia does not restrict the daily
activities of most people, in extreme cases desensitization
may be required.

ophidiophobia: fear of snakes | part of a series on phobias and fears

quote credit: Raiders of the Lost Ark

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Nyctophobia, or the irrational fear of the dark, is normal

in children and is usually overcome by adulthood. Rather
than fearing literal darkness, most people fear what could
potentially harm them under veil of darkness. It is speculated
that this fear may come from our evolutionary ancestors fear
of being hunted during the night. In adults and children, it can be
treated with cognitive-behavioral therapy or through desensitization.

nyctophobia: fear of the dark| part of a series on phobias and fears

quote credit: John Steinbeck, Travels with Charley: In Search of America

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Fea
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fear of a desire to jump.

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Acrophobia is the term for the irrational fear of heights. There is speculation
that this fear is inherited as an evolutionary prerogative. In a study
conducted by UC Berkeley in 1960, a group of babies would
not cross a visual cliff created by a piece of thick glass.
The mothers attempts to call the child across
did not work. Treatment can come in
the form of cognitive-behavioral
therapy, desensitization,
or medication for
extreme
sufferers.

acrophobia: fear of heights| part of a series on phobias and fears

quote credit: Amruta Patil, Kari