Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 28, 2025

Using the Threat Probability Task to Assess Anxiety and Fear During Uncertain and Certain Threat
Published on: September 12, 2014
The fear of losing control
1Department of Psychology, Concordia University, 7141 Sherbrooke St. W, Montreal, QC, H4B 1R6, Canada.
Abstract:
Although a great deal of research has focused on various aspects of control and their relations to psychopathology, new insights and therapeutic potential could be revealed through an examination and perhaps emphasis on fears of losing control. Although elements of control-related beliefs and phenomena have been highlighted in association with obsessive-compulsive disorder and social anxiety disorder, this paper will give a fresh perspective on fears and beliefs about losing control, with implications for understanding and perhaps treating a broad range of psychological problems including panic disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and others. New research questions and hypotheses are proposed, along with potential implications for expanded research into this domain and for clinical applications within a cognitive-behavioural approach.
Related Concept Videos
Avoidance Learning and Learned Helplessness
Avoidance learning occurs when an organism learns that a specific behavior can prevent an unpleasant outcome. For example, a student who receives a bad grade may start studying harder to avoid future poor grades. This behavior persists even when the negative outcome is no longer present. Avoidance learning is powerful because it maintains behavior in the absence of the...
Preparedness and Phobias
Self-Discrepancy Theory
Panic Disorder
Rotter's Locus of Control
Individuals with an internal locus of control believe that their personal efforts and decisions directly affect their...
Psychological Responses to Stress

