Homonym: Fobia (Fear)
Fobia is an intense, irrational fear of a specific object, situation, or activity that leads to significant anxiety and avoidance behavior. Common examples include arachnophobia (fear of spiders) and claustrophobia (fear of confined spaces). People with phobias often recognize that their fear is excessive, but they feel powerless to control it.
Phobias can develop from various factors, including genetics, past experiences, or learned behaviors. Treatment options include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, and medication, which can help individuals manage their fears and improve their quality of life.