Mental health articles

specific phobias Cognitive Symptoms
Studies of cognitive symptoms in specific phobics have not been very common, possibly because it has been assumed that any thoughts would naturally be related to the phobic object and because thoughts have not usually been considered etiologically important. Nevertheless, a few studies have asked specific phobics about their thoughts when confronting phobic stimuli and found that, although the majority are primarily concerned with harm in the immediate situation, a number engage in other types of thoughts such as concerns over their own sensations. Other research showed that phobic fear and avoidance is mediated either by beliefs over the ability to complete a particular action (self efficacy) or by beliefs relating to the likelihood and consequences of danger in the situation.

Tags: cognitive, phobias, specific phobias, symptoms