Fear of dogs
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"Cynophobia" is the clinical name for an abnormal fear of dogs, i.e., a specific phobia related to dogs. The dog is a domesticated superpredator; this in combination with increasing media coverage of dog attacks could be contributing factors for development of this fear.
A 1992 study of cynophobia among children and adults [1] reported that actually experiencing dog attacks does contribute to cynophobia. On the other hand, early harmless exposure to dogs seems to hamper conditioning that can lead to fear of dogs. Small children are more susceptible to acquiring this fear. Pediatrical psychologists explain that gradual exposure to dogs may help to prevent the development of cynophobia.
Treatment for cynophobia is similar to treatment for other specific phobias.
[edit] References
- ^ Doogan S, Thomas G. V. "Origins of fear of dogs in adults and children: the role of conditioning processes and prior familiarity with dogs.", Behav. Res. Ther. 1992 Jul;30(4):387-94. PubMed
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