Mottephobia, or the fear of moths alone, is closely related to thisphobia.
Specific phobias involve intense, life-limiting fear of a specific object or situation.
When people come in contact with moths or butterflies, they experience immediate symptoms of fear and anxiety.
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At a Glance
If you are scared of butterflies, then you might have lepidopterophobia.
In many cases, cognitive-behavioral therapy and exposure treatments can help you overcome your phobia and ease your fears.
People who have a phobia experience severe fear and avoidance that cause disruptions in their ability to function normally.
They may fear the flying behavior or worry that a flying creature will land on them.
Fear of Swarming
Both butterflies and moths are social creatures, and they often travel in groups.
Swarming, in which many butterflies or moths fly in close formation, may be a particular trigger.
Genetic and Family Influences
Specific phobias appear to have a genetic component.
Upbringing and witnessing phobia-related anxiety responses can also contribute to the development of such fears.
Traumatic Experiences
Being scared of butterflies can also be linked totraumain some cases.
Treatments for specific phobias often focus on psychotherapy but may also incorporate the use of medications and self-help strategies.
How Exposure Reduces Fear
This approach relies on what is known as themere exposure effect.
Such exposure can involve real-world exposure but imagined or virtual reality exposure can also be effective.
A sense of lack of control may be a contributor to the anxiety that results from the phobia.
check that you are getting enough sleep, connecting with yoursocial supportnetwork, and getting regular physical activity.
Research has shown that exercise can be effective in the treatment and prevention of anxiety.
Be sure to practice relaxation techniques along with exposure to help yourself stay calm.
Research has also shown that virtual exposure can be effective in the treatment of specific phobias.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
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doi:10.12688/f1000research.20082.1
Eaton WW, Bienvenu OJ, Miloyan B.Specific phobias.Lancet Psychiatry.
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