Understanding the Fear of People

Understanding the Fear of People Phobias Types Print Understanding the Fear of People (Anthropophobia) By Lisa Fritscher Lisa Fritscher is a freelance writer and editor with a deep interest in phobias and other mental health topics. Learn about our editorial policy Lisa Fritscher Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD on August 05, 2016 Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Learn about our Medical Review Board Steven Gans, MD Updated on October 09, 2019 Tetra Images/Getty Images More in Phobias Types Causes Symptoms and Diagnosis Treatment In This Article Table of Contents Expand Fear of People Causes Symptoms Treatment View All Back To Top Anthropophobia, or the fear of people, is a commonly misunderstood phobia. It often resembles social phobia but is not precisely the same fear. Depending on the severity, anthropophobia may cause a phobic reaction even when in the company of only one other person. In extreme cases, those with anthropophobia may withdraw altogether, communicating with others only through snail mail or electronic means such as e-mail or text messaging. Why a Fear of People Is Not the Same as Social Phobia   Social phobia is a diagnosis that encompasses a wide range of social fears. Some people fear only specific situations, such as public speaking or eating in front of people. Others are afraid of virtually all social situations. However, in social phobia, the focus of fear is the social situation.?? In anthropophobia, the fear is literally of other people, regardless of the situation in which they are encountered. Relatives who are known for being kind and loving are perceived as the same level of threat as strangers on a crowded bus. While those with social phobia generally feel somewhat less afraid in situations that make them feel anonymous, those with anthropophobia may be equally uncomfortable whether they are on stage or in the back row of a crowded theater.?? The differences are subtle and proper diagnosis is tricky. Therefore, it is important to seek professional assistance with any fear that involves other people. Causes Like all phobias, previous experiences can increase the risk of developing anthropophobia. If you have been the victim of a violent crime or have experienced psychological or emotional abuse or bullying, you may be at increased risk for developing a fear of people, also known as anthropophobia. Other neurological or mental health conditions may also increase your risk. For example, those on the autism spectrum often express a strong preference for being alone. If this tendency is not treated with a delicate balance of solitude and social skills training, a fear of people could develop. Those with disorders that cause paranoia, such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or bipolar disorder, may also be at increased risk for developing this phobia.?? For many people, however, there is no clear-cut cause. Anthropophobia may develop at any time. Fortunately, it is not necessary to discover the cause in order to treat the phobia. Symptoms Anthropophobia typically causes symptoms similar to those of any other phobia. When spending time with others, you may begin to sweat and shake. You might turn red and have trouble breathing normally. You might feel like your pulse is racing. You may be unable to speak, or even to formulate coherent thoughts. You will likely experience a strong fight or flight response, in which you feel an overwhelming need to get away.?? Additionally, you might worry that others are judging you for everything from your style of dress to your choice of words. You may be unable to make eye contact even with trusted friends.?? Anthropophobia often causes anticipatory anxiety as well. In the days leading up to an encounter with others, you may have trouble sleeping. You might feel physical distress, such as stomach problems or headaches when thinking about the upcoming event. You might be tempted to cancel or to simply not show up.?? When left untreated, anthropophobia often worsens over time. What begins as a relatively minor fear of being surrounded by strangers could escalate to include any group of people, even close friends, and eventually to include one-on-one encounters. Some people with severe anthropophobia quit work or school and actively avoid seeing anyone. Treatment Like all phobias, anthropophobia responds well to a variety of different treatment methods. When caught in an earlier stage, treatment may involve only a handful of brief therapy sessions during which you learn to replace your fearful thoughts with more positive ones. Behavioral training such as systematic desensitization, in which you are gradually exposed to stronger triggers, is often used.?? Anthropophobia interferes with one of the most basic human needs, the need for social contact, so the rewards of treatment are well worth the effort. If your anthropophobia is extreme, therapy may take more time. You may need to spend several sessions learning to tolerate sharing space with the therapist before you can progress. Nonetheless, with persistence and hard work, it is possible to overcome even the most extreme fear of people. Be patient and kind to yourself, but keep pushing through.