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Chapter 16: Problem 1

Review the Vocabulary Explain how excessive anxiety may lead to phobias or panic disorders.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Excessive anxiety may lead to the development of phobias if the anxiety is focused on a specific fear that the affected person goes to great lengths to avoid. Excessive anxiety can also lead to panic disorders, if the individual experiences severe unexpected reactions to their worry or fear, leading them to constantly dread the possibility of another panic attack.

Step by step solution

01

Define the Terms

Before explaining the relationship between the conditions, it's important to understand clearly what each term means. 'Excessive anxiety' refers to an overbearing feeling of worry or fear that is difficult to control and affects daily activities. 'Phobias' are an extreme or irrational fear of or aversion to something. 'Panic disorders' are a type of anxiety disorder where reoccurring unexpected panic attacks happen. Panic attacks are sudden periods of intense fear that may include palpitations, sweating, shaking, shortness of breath, numbness, or a feeling that something terrible is going to happen.
02

Explain the Progression from Anxiety to More Serious Conditions

Excessive anxiety can lead to more serious conditions like phobias and panic disorders. If the person experiencing anxiety finds that their fear or worry is focused on a particular object, situation, or activity, they might develop a phobia. They may go to great lengths to avoid what they fear, which can limit their activities and experiences. If the anxiety provokes severe, unexpected responses, it may manifest as panic disorders. Individuals with this disorder may live in constant worry about experiencing another panic attack, which can cause them to avoid places or situations they associate with these attacks.
03

Summarize the Explanation

To sum up, excessive anxiety can escalate to either phobias or panic disorders if left unchecked. When the source of anxiety is specific and avoided it may become a phobia, whereas extreme physical responses to the anxiety might indicate a panic disorder. It's important to seek help if one is experiencing any level of anxiety that becomes unmanageable or starts affecting daily life.

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