A List of Phobias

This list of phobias offers a glimpse of the many types of phobias that have been named by psychologists and doctors. As you can tell from looking at this list, there is a wide range of fear objects, from achluophobia (the fear of darkness) to phobophobia (the fear of phobias.)

Attempting to compile a comprehensive list of phobias would be a futile exercise because almost anything could potentially become an object of fear. Many of these phobias arise due to traumatic experiences, although there is some evidence that phobias may run in families.

While we all have fears, you should consult a doctor if your fear of an object or situation is interfering with your personal relationships or functioning at school, home, or work. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), 75% of people suffering from specific phobias are able to overcome their fear when treated with cognitive behavioral therapy.