Are you stuck in the Fear Trap?

This resource offers a case illustration of phobia through the example of Tara, a young person experiencing a fear of dogs.

It highlights the physiological responses to fear alongside the cognitive processes. It’s designed to aid therapists in facilitating psychoeducation around the maintenance cycle, emphasising how avoidance reinforces anxiety.  

References and Further Reading

  • Mennin, D. S., & Fresco, D. M. (2014). Emotion regulation therapy. In J. J. Gross (Ed.), Handbook of emotion regulation (2nd ed., pp. 469–490). The Guilford Press.
  • Howells, L. (2018). Cognitive behavioural therapy for adolescents and young adults: An emotion regulation approach. Routledge.
  • 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.