A phobia is an intense, irrational fear of a specific object, situation, or activity that leads to avoidance behavior. People with phobias often recognize that their fear is excessive, but they feel powerless to control it. Common examples include fear of heights (acrophobia), fear of spiders (arachnophobia), and fear of flying (aviophobia). Phobias can develop from various factors, including genetics, traumatic experiences, or learned behaviors. They can significantly impact daily life, making it difficult for individuals to engage in normal activities. Treatment options often include therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, and sometimes medication to help manage symptoms.