Terms sometimes called social “phobias”

Some words ending in “phobia” describe prejudice, hostility or discrimination toward groups of people. These are different from clinical phobias, which are anxiety conditions involving fear and avoidance.

Important distinction: Discriminatory attitudes are social and ethical issues, not simply anxiety symptoms. People affected by discrimination deserve respect, safety and support.

Examples of terms

Xenophobia: prejudice or hostility toward foreigners or people perceived as outsiders.
Homophobia, biphobia, lesbophobia and transphobia: prejudice or hostility toward LGBTQ+ people.
Islamophobia, Judeophobia and Christianophobia: prejudice or hostility connected with religion.
Age-related terms: prejudice or fear connected with age groups, such as older people or young people.

Where a person is experiencing anxiety, trauma or intrusive fear around other people, professional counselling may help. Where the issue is prejudice or discrimination, education, empathy, respect and accountability matter.

Take the next step toward support

Information can be helpful, but lasting progress often begins when you seek treatment and support. If fear, anxiety, avoidance, low mood, OCD symptoms or eating concerns are affecting your life, please speak with a qualified health professional.

Our AI Phobia Support Chat can help you calmly explore what is happening and prepare questions for a doctor, psychologist or counsellor. It does not replace professional care.

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Book a stress management seminar

One of our experienced professional team members may be available online, or may be able to travel to selected areas, to present practical education on managing fears, phobias, anxiety and inner restlessness.

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Wellbeing education only. Not diagnosis, treatment, cure, crisis support or a replacement for medical or psychological care.

Need a calm first step?

Use the AI Phobia Support Chat to talk through a fear, organise your thoughts and prepare for professional help.

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Seek treatment early

If fear, panic, avoidance, low mood, OCD symptoms or eating concerns are affecting daily life, please seek treatment from a qualified GP, psychologist, counsellor or mental health professional.

In crisis?

If you feel at risk of harming yourself or someone else, contact local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department now.