Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 18, 2026

Social Isolation Model: A Noninvasive Rodent Model of Stress and Anxiety
Published on: November 11, 2022
Severe growing-up phobia, a condition explained in a 14-year-old boy
Laurencia Perales-Blum1, Myrthala Juárez-Treviño1, Daniela Escobedo-Belloc1
1Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Francisco I. Madero Avenue W and Gonzalitos Avenue, 64460 Monterrey, NL, Mexico.
Abstract:
We present the clinical case of a 14-year-old boy with gerascophobia or an excessive fear of aging, who felt his body development as a threat, to the point where he took extreme measures to stop or otherwise hide growth. He had a history of separation anxiety, sexual abuse, and suffering bullying. He presented with anxious and depressive symptoms and food restriction, criticized his body image, had negative feelings towards the maturation process, suffered at the thought of being rejected, and was preoccupied with certain physical characteristics. We conducted an analysis of biological, psychological, and environmental factors and their possible interactions and established treatment with psychotherapy and fluoxetine. Because of the favorable results, this approach could be considered a good option in such cases.
Related Concept Videos
Social Anxiety Disorder
Hazan and Shaver's Attachment Styles
Anxiety: Overview
Individuals with anxiety often experience a range of physical and emotional symptoms, including sweating, trembling, tachycardia, and disturbances in sleep patterns. These symptoms vary in intensity and frequency but are generally disruptive and distressing.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Piaget's Stage 1 of Cognitive Development
Exploration...
Attachment

