Researchers have not yet determined exactly what causes phobias. However, there are a few risk factors that appear to make phobias more likely to occur. Here a few factors that may increase your chances of developing a phobia.
Your Gender
Women are at least twice as likely as men to develop an anxiety disorder, including phobias.Your Age
Specific phobias are most likely to occur in childhood. Teens are most prone to social phobia, while young adults are at greatest risk for agoraphobia.Family History
Research suggests that those who are related to people with phobias are more likely to develop them.Your Environment
Phobias may be at least partly learned responses. Teens who are bullied, for example, are more likely to develop social phobia. Likewise, those who are taught to fear snakes may be more likely to develop a phobia of snakes.Your Temperament
Some people simply have a timid or skittish personality. This personality may make it easier for phobias to develop.Your Culture
It is not yet clear exactly what effect culture plays on the development of phobias. However, studies show that lifetime rates of phobia development vary between cultural groups.Source:
Somers MSc, PHD, Julian, Goldner MHSc, MD, Elliot, Waraich MHSc, MD, Paul, Hsu MSc, Lorena. Prevalence and Incidence Studies of Anxiety Disorders: A Systematic Review of the Literature. Canadian Journal of Psychiatry. February 2006. 51:2. pp. 100-113. February 19, 2008.
