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Causes of Phobias

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with a phobia, you may wonder how it developed. Learn about the possible causes behind your biggest fears.

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The Link Between Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Phobias

Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD

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3 Major Theories on How Phobias Develop

Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD

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If Phobias Have a Biological Cause They Can Be Treated With Medication

Medically reviewed by Daniel B. Block, MD

I've got to get away from here!

Could You Have Inherited Your Phobias?

Medically reviewed by Daniel B. Block, MD

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How the Relationship With Our Mother Affects Relations With Others

Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD

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The Different Factors That Cause Certain Phobias to Develop

Reviewed by David Susman, PhD

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How Can Learning Theories Help Treat Phobias?

Reviewed by David Susman, PhD

Mother sitting on the floor playing with a young child.

How Social Cognitive Theory Explains the Development of Phobias

Medically reviewed by Daniel B. Block, MD

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Understanding the Psychoanalytic Theory of Phobias

Medically reviewed by Daniel B. Block, MD