There are several theories about why people develop phobias. Specific phobias often result from having a bad experience. Children may see other people getting hurt by something or be afraid of something. Most of the time, people end up with phobias about something that does have some potential risk. To be diagnosed as a phobia, the fear has to interfere with someone's life or cause distress.
Phobias are much more common in women than in men.
Both social phobia and specific phobias usually respond to treatment. Certain medications can be very helpful to people who are learning how to confront the object of their phobias. Other medications can also be taken right before a scary situation. Specific behavioral therapy techniques are useful. Learning yoga, meditation, and relaxation techniques can help control the anxiety people get when they deal with their phobias.