spider phobia

a persistent and irrational fear of spiders. Situations in which spiders may be encountered are often avoided or else endured with intense anxiety or distress. In DSM–IV–TR and DSM–5, spider phobia is classified as a specific phobia, animal type. Also called arachneophobia; arachnophobia. See also animal phobia.

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Psychology term of the day

February 21st 2025

reflection of feeling

a statement made by a therapist or counselor that is intended to highlight the feelings or attitudes implicitly expressed in a client’s communication and to draw them out so that they can be clarified. Also called reflection response.