What do you hate most about frogs? Do their slimy bodies make you feel irritated? Maybe it is a fear or this sensation that makes you despise seeing them.
Whatever it is, it is called ranidaphobia, and this post will discuss it. Frogs are not that bad; in fact, they are gentle and fascinating.
Many tropical frogs are decorated with bright and attractive colors, but despite how harmless they look, some people still have a natural fear and dislike for them.
If you cringe, scream, or jump at frogs at sight or thought of frogs, let’s have this talk.
What is Ranidaphobia?
Ranidaphobia is a specific phobia for frogs and toads, a type of anxiety disorder common to children. However, it can also affect adults who find their attributes offensive and unpleasant.
Synonymously called batrachophobia, ranidaphobia originated from a Latin source, ‘Rani/Ranidae, which means “the family of amphibians,” including frogs, toads, newts, etc. The ending part of the word, phobia, is derived from Phobos, Greek for fear. (The fear of toads is specifically called bufonophobia).
It could be caused by a bad experience with a frog or toad, such as feeling irritated by its wet and slimy skin.
How Common is Ranidaphobia?
There is no factual information on how common ranidaphobia is. However, it is a known fact that specific phobias, in general, are widespread.
Research conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) estimates that 12.5% of adults in the United States would experience a specific phobia at some point in their lifetimes.
Symptoms of Ranidaphobia
There are various signs of ranidaphobia, and they are divided into two categories: psychological and physical symptoms.
Knowing these symptoms will help you adopt the correct type of treatment.
Psychological Symptoms
People with ranidaphobia experience intense, overwhelming fear or anxiety when around frogs or seeing a picture of one.
They get easily irritated and revolted towards these creatures. Painfully regarding the dangers posed by frogs and toads, this trait of fear is highly exaggerated.
When exposed to a frog-associated stimulus, people who suffer from ranidaphobia experience body sensations similar to those of a panic attack. You know you probably have ranidaphobia when you experience fear just by thinking, hearing, or seeing a picture or video of a frog.
People with anxiety for frogs and toads tend to avoid places where these creatures can be easily seen.
Physical Symptoms
By physical symptoms, we refer to those signs experienced or symptoms felt just by seeing frogs or toads.
A few of the physical symptoms that people with ranidaphobia may share are:
- Increased heart rate
- Sweating
- Shaking
- Shortness and difficulty in breathing
- Feeling lightheaded or dizzy.
- Digestive symptoms, like nausea or an upset stomach: Seeing a frog can upset or negatively affect the entire body system.
Ranidaphobia Symptoms in Children
The symptoms of a particular phobia in children differ from those in adults. For example, a child with ranidaphobia tends to cry, freeze up, or even get clingy when exposed to a frog or toad.
It would be unavoidably noticeable that the child is uncomfortable with the environment just by seeing frogs and toads.
Causes of Ranidaphobia
Numerous causes can trigger a person’s fear of toads and frogs. It could be a result of the following itemized reasons:
- Learned Behavior
Some people develop a fear of toads and frogs due to stories from either family or friends. It ends up occupying their minds with a phobia for these creatures.
- Negative Experience
One of the causes of ranidaphobia is a negative experience with frogs or toads, probably due to its croaking at night or in dark environs. An unexpected hop from a frog or its slimy nature can cause an unforgettable traumatic experience. This could develop a massive fear of frogs and toads in a person.
- Individual Factors
There are diverse individual factors that can trigger the fear of frogs, such as genetics and attitude.
How to Overcome Ranidaphobia?
Overcoming ranidaphobia can be a bit technical. However, it centers on your ability to shun such fears’ impact and negative influence and accept treatment.
These steps can help overcome ranidaphobia;
- Exposure Therapy
Adopting exposure therapy entails associating with the creatures you are afraid of, in this case, frogs. The therapy teaches you how to manage your anxiety and conquer your fears of frogs.
- Psychological Treatment
This means understanding why you are repugnant to them and being determined to overcome such phobia with the help of medical personnel.
- Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT)
CBT has to do with working with the therapist to examine your thoughts and emotions that lead to this fear and eradicate the fear.
Conclusion
Ranidaphobia, as an anxiety disorder, could escalate from physical contact with frogs to entertaining fears just by the mere hearing of a frog’s tale. It is, therefore, advisable to seek help from a therapist to overcome this fear and appreciate the attractive qualities of these creatures.
