Phobias are irrational fears that cause intense anxiety when faced with certain situations, objects, or experiences. They can be specific, such as arachnophobia (fear of spiders) or more general, like agoraphobia (fear of open spaces). But how does society play a role in developing these fears? In this article, I will explore three ways in which societal pressure contributes to the development of phobias.
Social norms
Society sets standards for what is considered acceptable behavior, appearance, and emotions. When individuals feel pressured to conform to these expectations, it can lead to stress and anxiety, which may manifest as phobias.
Someone who has body dysmorphic disorder may develop an extreme fear of being judged for their physical appearance due to societal beauty standards. This person might avoid going out in public or engaging in social activities because they feel ashamed or embarrassed about how they look. Similarly, someone with germaphobia may have developed their fear of germs from growing up in a society where cleanliness is highly valued.
Media portrayals
Media representations of various things, including sex, intimacy, and mental health issues, can also shape our understanding of them and contribute to the development of phobias.
Movies and TV shows often depict romantic relationships in idealized ways, making it hard for people to relate to real-life experiences. This can lead to unrealistic expectations and feelings of failure when those ideals aren't met, which can cause phobias.
Media coverage of mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression can stigmatize them, leading to fear and avoidance of seeking help.
Personal experiences
Personal experiences can shape our perceptions of certain situations and contribute to the development of phobias. Someone who had a traumatic experience involving snakes may develop ophidiophobia (fear of snakes) due to associating all snakes with danger. Or someone who witnessed a car accident as a child may develop vehophobia (fear of driving). These experiences can be exacerbated by societal pressures that reinforce negative stereotypes or beliefs around these topics.
While phobias are irrational fears, society plays a significant role in their development. By understanding the ways in which societal pressure contributes to this phenomenon, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and accepting environment that supports individuals dealing with phobias.
How do societal pressures contribute to the development of phobias?
The society we live in today is an extremely fast-paced environment where people are constantly under pressure to perform well at their workplace, have a perfect social life, and keep up with current trends. The competitive atmosphere of our society can cause feelings of anxiety and stress, which may lead individuals to develop phobias.