The Fear Mountain

The worksheet helps children understand the natural rise and fall of fear, comparing it to climbing a mountain. It explains that, while fear may feel overwhelming as it builds, it eventually reaches a peak and then gradually subsides. This visual metaphor encourages children to stay with their fear until it begins to lessen, empowering them to face situations with the understanding that anxiety will ease over time.

It is designed to support professionals in helping children understand habituation theory in an accessible way.

References and Further Reading

  • May, A. C., Rudy, B. M., & Matson, J. L. (2013). Evidence-based behavioral treatment of dog phobia with young children: Two case examples. Behavior Modification, 37(1), 63–79. https://doi.org/10.1177/0145445512458524.
  • Fraire, M. G., Halldorsdottir, T., & Ollendick, T. H. (2017). Evidence-based interventions for specific phobias in children and adolescents. Handbook of evidence-based interventions for children and adolescents, 267-278.
  • Davis, T. E., Ollendick, T. H., & Öst, L.-G. (2019). One-session treatment of specific phobias in children: Recent developments and a systematic review. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, 15, 233–256. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-clinpsy-050718-095608.
  • Flatt, N., & King, N. (2008). Building the Case for Brief Psychointerventions in the Treatment of Specific Phobias in Children and Adolescents. Behaviour Change, 25(4), 191–200. doi:10.1375/bech.25.4.191.
  • Foa, E. B., & Kozak, M. J. (1986). Emotional processing of fear: Exposure to corrective information. Psychological Bulletin, 99(1), 20–35. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-2909.99.1.20.
  • Tolin, D. F. (2012). Face your fears: A proven plan to beat anxiety, panic, phobias, and obsessions. John Wiley & Sons.