10 Common Fears & Phobias
7. Fear of Intimacy
While technically not a phobia, the fear of intimacy prevents someone from becoming too close to others. Many people who fear intimacy with another person may want to have a close relationship but are afraid of being vulnerable. Someone with this fear may have difficulty trusting others, low self-esteem, insatiable sexual desire and the inability to express emotion. People who fear intimacy may also have anger episodes, avoid physical contact and live in social isolation.
Intimacy fears may stem from a childhood experience, and they are often part of a defense mechanism to avoid getting hurt. Causes of this fear may include sexual or physical abuse, parental neglect or separation issues. Oftentimes, professional counseling is necessary, especially if the fear stems from previous trauma or is accompanied by symptoms of depression.
Advertisement
