What is a common characteristic of a specific phobia?

A specific phobia is characterized by a persistent and intense fear of a particular object or situation that lasts for six months or longer. This intense fear often leads to significant distress and impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. Individuals might go to great lengths to avoid the phobic stimulus, which can interfere with their daily lives.

For instance, someone with a specific phobia of spiders (arachnophobia) may avoid places where spiders might be encountered, leading to limitations in their activities, such as avoiding outdoor events. The key aspect here is the duration and intensity of the fear rather than its transient nature or manageability. Unlike mild fears that can come and go or be easily managed, specific phobias are recognized for their persistent and overwhelming nature, significantly impacting the individual's life.