A phobia is an intense, irrational fear of a specific object, situation, or activity that leads to significant anxiety and 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, past experiences, or learned behaviors. Treatment options often include therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and sometimes medication to help manage anxiety. Understanding and addressing phobias can lead to improved quality of life for those affected.