Phobias

Conditioning by association cannot create a phobia on its own. A phobia is not simply an irrational fear; it is an irrational fear that makes you behave in a certain way. A phobia develops when you begin to avoid the object or situation that creates anxiety.

Phobias can develop because, through avoidance, you “reward” yourself for behaving fearfully. By avoiding the lake and swimming, you are reducing the amount of anxiety and fear in your life. This makes you feel better—it rewards you. As you realize that avoiding these things will make your fear go away, you will do it more often. Soon you have developed a full-fledged phobia.