We are all exposed to events in our lives that are frightening and cause us to avoid a repeat of those circumstances. If the emotional discomfort is rationally based, it simply classifies as a fear. An irrational fear of something is labeled as phobias.

Common phobias are

• Claustrophobia - a fear of confined places
• Hydrophobia - a fear of water
• Acrophobia - a fear of heights
• Acrophobia - a fear of open spaces
• and other phobias

Phobias are not the result of biochemical or genetic factors, but are leaned behaviors from past experiences. Phobias may be acquired by manipulating parents, teachers, or other role models. These irrational fears may originate at any age and are easily eliminated through the use of hypnosis.