Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 19, 2026

Protocol for Studying Extinction of Conditioned Fear in Naturally Cycling Female Rats
Published on: February 23, 2015
Specific phobia predicts psychopathology in young women
Julia Trumpf1, Jürgen Margraf, Noortje Vriends
1Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Psychology, University of Basel, Missionsstrasse 60/62, 4055 Basel, Switzerland. julia.trumpf@unibas.ch
Background:
Although specific phobia is characterized by an early age at onset and by high rates of comorbidity, few studies have examined comorbid relationships prospectively.
Objectives:
The present study investigated the association between specific phobia and the risk of a broad range of psychopathology among young women in the community.
Method:
Data came from the Dresden Predictor Study in which 1,538 German women (18-25 years) completed a diagnostic interview at two time points.
Results:
Women with specific phobia had a twofold increase in odds of developing any anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, depression, and any somatoform disorder during 17 months, compared to women without specific phobia. Except for depression, these associations persisted after adjustment for all comorbid mental disorders.
Conclusions:
Specific phobia thus appears to be a risk factor for a variety of problems. The result further underpins the necessity for early intervention for specific phobia to prevent later mental health problems.
Related Concept Videos
Preparedness and Phobias
Panic Disorder
Social Anxiety Disorder
Anorexia Nervosa
Symptoms and Physical Effects
Individuals with anorexia nervosa commonly exhibit extreme...
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Psychosexual Stages of Personality: Phallic

