Stepping out of the fear trap

This worksheet explores the concept of the “fear trap”—the cycle of avoiding fears to feel better in the short term, which ultimately reinforces those fears in the long run. It explains how physical and emotional responses to fear, such as racing thoughts and sweaty palms, can trap individuals in avoidance behaviours, preventing them from overcoming difficulties.

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.