Question

Read the passage and answer the following question:
Raunak always used to dislike and be afraid of reptiles. Once he was trying to wear his shoes when a lizard jumped out of it. Since then he started getting scared of lizards all the more. He could not control his fear when he saw a snake in his garden. His heart started pounding, he was sweating badly, he even fainted once when someone told him that there is a lizard under his chair. The very thought of any of these reptiles, generates in him an extreme level of fear. His mother took him to a doctor, who suggested that Raunak should meet a psychotherapist.
Another symptom of the disorder Raunak is suffering from is:

• A. Irrational fear
• B. Embarrassment
• C. Rational fear
• D. Tantrums

Hint:

Irrational fear, often seen in phobias, can be treated with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps individuals confront and change their negative thought patterns related to specific fears.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Raunak's extreme and uncontrollable fear of reptiles, such as lizards and snakes, is a clear example of irrational fear. This type of fear is disproportionate to the actual threat posed by the object or situation. In Raunak's case, his fear is excessive and beyond what is rational or typical, as seen by his physical reactions such as sweating, fainting, and intense anxiety upon encountering or even thinking about reptiles.
- Irrational fear is a hallmark of specific phobias, which fall under anxiety disorders. - Embarrassment is not the main symptom Raunak is exhibiting, as his fear is irrational rather than tied to social situations.
- Rational fear would imply a proportionate level of fear, which is not the case here.
- Tantrums are typically characterized by uncontrolled emotional outbursts, but Raunak’s response is rooted in fear, not anger or frustration.
Thus, the correct answer is Irrational fear.