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Advice & Information » Phobias

Phobias

Fear is a natural response in everyone and keeps us from entering into dangerous situations. However, when the fear is centred on objects, creatures or situations that cannot possibly harm us then we can be described as 'phobic'.

Children have more fears and phobias than adults and tend to experience the emotion of them more intensely. Such fears and phobias may begin with no apparent reason, although there is usually a small incident that has triggered an exaggerated fear response and this then becomes a habit.

Relaxation works

Wherever there is fear there is tension and so teaching the child to relax and to be calm is always a great help. A simple relaxation exercise is contained in our information article on Exam Stress. Practising relaxation before facing the feared object or situation will benefit children of all ages. Give praise whenever a fear-inducing situation is faced.

Avoid labelling

Treatment of phobias in children works best if the feared object or incident is gradually faced, with support and encouragement from a caring adult. Avoid labelling such as ‘wasp phobic’ and just treat the child’s reaction as something that can be dealt with and overcome.

Common phobias at different ages

• Children aged 2 - 4 years generally fear animals, being left alone and loud noises.
• Between the ages of 4 - 6 years the fear of darkness and imaginary creatures come to the fore. Fear of strangers is common in the under fives but generally decreases into what would generally be called 'shyness'.
• After the age of 6 years irrational fears tend to decline, although school phobia and a fear of blood tends to start between ages 9 and 11years.
• After the age of 11 children may fear death or that someone close to them might die.

Suggested Flower Remedy: Fears from Bailey Flower Essences

For more individual guidance on how to help a child with a specific phobia, "Ask the Experts".