When People Neglect Their Health Because of Phobias

Phobias—exaggerated and excessive fears of situations, objects, and people—that are disproportionate to the actual level of danger or threat, can be more debilitating than we think. People will sometimes neglect their personal health because of phobias, resulting in unnecessary avoidance of regular doctor and dentist checkups because of their excessive and overwhelming fears (e.g., of needles, disease, and germs). Please read the article from the American Psychology Association, which discusses how psychological interventions may show promise in treating such fears.

http://www.apa.org/monitor/julaug05/fears.html

After reading “When Health Fears Hurt Health,” consider the questions below. Then submit your responses.

Question 1

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Individuals in Bihar-India self-reported ___________________ illness compared to Individuals in the United States.

Question 2

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Question 3

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According to Dr. Lars-Goran, what is the rate of fainting for individuals with blood phobias when these individuals are in a phobic situation?

Question 4

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Answers will vary. One possibility: If an individual fears needles, he or she may refuse vaccinations and therefore be susceptible to illness and disease. In some states, vaccinations are required to work with certain populations (e.g., children and geriatric), so it may limit employment opportunities.

Question 5

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What treatments for blood-injection injury phobias are discussed in the article?
Answers will vary. One possibility: The therapy called Self-Injection Anxiety Therapy (SIAT), which includes six sessions that focus on treating the anxiety and overcoming avoidance tactics.

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