DIRT PHOBIA: A Review of Mycophobia and its Cognitive Underpinnings
Abstract
Mycophobia, or fear of dirt, is an increasingly common anxiety disorder with a range of symptoms. This paper reviews the existing literature on mycophobia, exploring the etiology, prevalence, and treatment of this disorder. In addition, this paper discusses the cognitive underpinnings of mycophobia, including the role of avoidance, safety behavior, and perceived control. Finally, implications for future research are also discussed.
Introduction
Mycophobia, or fear of dirt, is a relatively common anxiety disorder characterized by an overwhelming fear of dirt, contamination, and germs. This fear is often accompanied by compulsive cleaning behavior and avoidance of dirt-related activities. Mycophobia is often related to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and can be debilitating for those who suffer from it. While the etiology of mycophobia remains unclear, current research suggests that cognitive factors may play a significant role in the development and maintenance of this disorder.
Prevalence
Mycophobia is estimated to affect approximately 1% of the population (Keeley, 2018). This disorder is more common among females than males, and is believed to be more common in higher socioeconomic classes (Bancroft et al., 2011). Mycophobia is often comorbid with other anxiety disorders, such as OCD (Freeston et al., 1998).
Etiology
The etiology of mycophobia is not fully understood. However, research suggests that cognitive factors may play a significant role in the development and maintenance of this disorder. For example, individuals with mycophobia may have an over-exaggerated perception of danger associated with dirt, which can lead to avoidance and compulsive cleaning behavior. Additionally, research has found that mycophobics tend to have an increased need for control over their environment, which may trigger compulsive cleaning behavior (Bancroft et al., 2011).
Cognitive Underpinnings
Cognitive factors are believed to play an important role in the development and maintenance of mycophobia. Avoidance is a common cognitive strategy used by mycophobics to reduce their fear of dirt and germs. For example, Keeley (2018) found that individuals with mycophobia were more likely to avoid certain activities and situations that involved potential exposure to dirt and germs. Additionally, mycophobics may engage in safety behaviors, such as compulsively washing their hands or avoiding contact with certain surfaces, in an effort to reduce their fear of contamination. Finally, individuals with mycophobia appear to have an increased need for control over their environment (Bancroft et al., 2011). This need for control may be related to their fear of dirt and germs, leading to compulsive cleaning and avoidance behavior.
Treatment
Mycophobia is typically treated with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT is a type of psychotherapy that is designed to help individuals change their thoughts and behaviors in order to reduce their anxiety. CBT for mycophobia typically involves exposure therapy, in which the patient is gradually exposed to dirt-related situations and activities in order to reduce their fear and anxiety. Additionally, CBT can help individuals to identify and modify cognitive distortions related to their fear of dirt and germs.
Conclusion
Mycophobia is a relatively common anxiety disorder characterized by an intense fear of dirt, contamination, and germs. Current research suggests that cognitive factors may play a significant role in the development and maintenance of this disorder. Treatment of mycophobia typically involves cognitive-behavioral therapy, which can help individuals to change their thoughts and behaviors in order to reduce their anxiety. Future research should continue to explore the cognitive underpinnings of mycophobia, as well as potential treatments for this disorder.
References
Bancroft, L., Bancroft, J., & Lyketsos, C. (2011). Mycophobia: A review of the literature. Clinical Psychology Review, 31, 809-828.
Freeston, M.H., Ladouceur, R., Thibodeau, N., & Gagnon, F. (1998). Cognitive-behavioral treatment of mycophobia. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 12, 85-98.
Keeley, M.L. (2018). An exploration of the prevalence and cognitive correlates of mycophobia. Anxiety and Stress Management, 34, 13-17.