Phobias and Addictions

PHOBIAS AND ADDICTIONS 1

Phobias and Addictions

Lisa M. Duley

PSY/300

Fernando Villegas

University of Phoenix

PHOBIAS AND ADDICTIONS 2

Throughout this paper we will be discussing the differences between phobias and addictions. We will also be learning be looking at classical and operant conditioning and how phobias can be developed through classical conditioning and addictions through operant conditioning. We will also learn what the different reinforcements are. There are differences in all aspects of phobias, addictions, and classical and operant condition.

To me, a phobia is being so afraid of something that it causes anxiety. For example, I am afraid of speaking in front of people. I tend to get very nervous and anxious. I start to sweat and my face turns red. Phobias are described as a fear or anxiety disorder that an individual dreads a certain situation, thing or place ("Medical News Today", 2004 - 2013). Having a phobia myself, I can say that when I am faced with my own fears I shut down and become scared or anxious. My youngest sister has anxiety and when she feels that way she gets nervous, dizzy and feels like she is going to vomit.

Now addiction tends to take a different meaning than phobia. I personally believe that an addiction is something that a person is obsessed with something or constantly needs something. According to "Healthy Place" (2000 - 2012), “The term ‘addiction’ describes a compulsive act which causes harm to the person and those around them and over which the person no longer has control.” I have a father who is an alcoholic. His drinking has been out of control for years, but I have never noticed it until I was old enough to understand what the word drunk meant. He has not physically hurt himself or anyone else, but the emotional damage that he has caused because of his alcoholism cannot be forgotten.

The two different types of conditioning are classical and operant. Classical...