Definition of Phobia - simple/specific:

A phobia is a persistent and irrational fear of a particular type of object, animal, activity, or situation.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Specific phobias are a type of anxiety disorder in which exposure to the feared stimulus may provoke extreme anxiety or a panic attack. Specific phobias are among the most common of all psychiatric disorders, affecting up to 10% of the population.

Common phobias include the fear of:

• Blood
• Certain animals (for instance, dogs or snakes)
• Flying
• High places
• Insects or spiders
• Lightning

People with specific phobias often realize their fear is irrational, but are unable to prevent it.