Androphobia is an anxiety condition that is characterized by a fear of men. This condition is not limited to women. Men can also suffer from this irrational fear. People who suffer from androphobia commonly engage in elaborate and extreme measures to avoid men. This condition can have a negative impact on various aspects of life, such as employment and romantic involvement.
A person with this condition is likely to be overcome with fear or to experience terror when she is put into a situation that involves a male’s presence. This can be true even when she knows there is no threat to her safety. There are numerous symptoms that can indicate the existence of this condition. These include rapid heartbeat, trembling, and shortness of breath. A sufferer’s mouth can become dry and she could also have an impulse to vomit.
It is believed that many people who suffer from androphobia do so because of a traumatic incident. The person who suffers from this condition may not have been a direct victim in the event that caused her to develop the problem. For example, one woman may have witnessed another being physically or sexually abused, and thereafter developed this fear. This condition is not always the result of a single event. Sometimes it develops over a span of time.
This fear can have a severe impact on a person’s life. Her relationships, for example, are likely to be affected. This can include professional relationships or those of a personal nature. Some people with androphobia marry, but many remain single.
Many people suffer with androphobia without getting help. One reason for this is because it is believed many people are unaware that the fear of men is a recognized condition. Many people are also reportedly unaware that this condition affects many other people.
Androphobia treatment does exist. There is not an average length of treatment because the amount of help a person needs generally depends on the severity of the condition and the severity of the trauma that caused it. Another factor that will affect treatment is the method used.
Treatment options include the services of psychological professionals. In some instances, medication is used as part of treatment programs. There are also books, audio books, and materials that can be downloaded from the Internet to help a person manage or overcome this fear. It is important to note that all treatment options may not be suitable or effective for everyone.
