Astraphobia Essay Example

untreated when young it will lead to an astraphobia that would be difficult to treat.

Dogs and cats are known to suffer from astraphobia, between 15 and 30% of dogs are known to show some severe anxiety when there are thunderstorms. Research on dogs who suffer from astraphobia has shown that cortisol, which is a hormone that causes stress, is higher in the dogs that suffer from astraphobia, during storms. Also cats are known to suffer from astraphobia when there are thunderstorms, this is not common but such cut try to hide wwhen there is a thunderstorm (Taber, 75).

Astraphobia can be treated for adults, children and even animals. In treating astraphobia there is application of the cognitive behavioral therapy techniques. This may involve visualization exercises to calm ones fears when there are storms. Also soothing messages when there is a storm is necessary for adults. In children distracting a child by either music or play is necessary to the child. Also talking positively and saying how a storm cannot hurt is important to help the child to build self confidence. In animals anti anxiety medications may be important to such animals and also counter conditioning technique might help in treatment of animals suffering from astraphobia.

It is impossible to live in a world without storms. Astraphobia like most phobia are distressing to the individual who experiences them and can lead to dangerous behavior. If allowed over for long without seeking medical attention they may become severe. Therefore individuals who suffer from fears should seek professional help.