PHTHIRIOPHOBIA Meaning and
Definition
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Phthiriophobia is a term used to describe an irrational and excessive fear or anxiety about lice or infestations by these parasitic insects. It is classified as a specific phobia, which is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by an intense and persistent fear of a specific object, situation, or creature.
Individuals with phthiriophobia may experience intense feelings of fear, dread, and anxiety when thinking about lice or encountering situations that may involve lice infestation. This fear can cause significant distress and impairment in daily functioning, leading individuals to engage in avoidance behaviors such as avoiding contact with potentially infested people or places.
Phthiriophobia may stem from various factors, including personal experiences, cultural beliefs, or exposure to media that exaggerate the dangers of lice infestations. The fear can be exacerbated by the common misconceptions and stigma associated with lice, leading individuals to feel embarrassed, dirty, or socially ostracized if they were to become infested.
Treatment for phthiriophobia typically involves psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT helps individuals identify and challenge irrational thoughts and beliefs related to lice infestations, while also teaching relaxation techniques and coping strategies to manage anxiety symptoms. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms of anxiety.
Overall, phthiriophobia involves an excessive fear of lice infestation that can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. Seeking professional help is essential for individuals experiencing phthiriophobia to manage their fears and regain control over their lives.
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Unreasonable and extreme fear of infestation with lice.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PHTHIRIOPHOBIA
- phthiriophobaa
- phthiriophobma
- phthiriophobha
- phthiriophobii
- phthiriophobie
- phthiriophobic
- phthighriophobia
- phthiriophoebia
- ph thiriophobia
- pht hiriophobia
- phth iriophobia
- phthi riophobia
- phthir iophobia
- phthiri ophobia
- phthirioph obia
- phthiriopho bia
- phthiriophob ia
- phthiriophobi a
Etymology of PHTHIRIOPHOBIA
The word "phthiriophobia" is derived from the Greek terms "phthirio" meaning "louse" and "phobia" meaning "fear" or "aversion". Lice, particularly the parasitic insects that infest mammals and humans, are known as "phthirio" in Greek. The suffix "-phobia" is commonly used in English to denote an irrational or extreme fear or aversion towards a specific object or situation. Hence, "phthiriophobia" refers to the fear or aversion towards lice.
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