Which phobia is described by fear of open spaces or leaving a safe place?

Which phobia is described by fear of open spaces or leaving a safe place?

• A. Hydrophobia
• B. Agoraphobia
• C. Claustrophobia
• D. Xenophobia

Answer: (B)

This item tests recognizing a phobia defined by fear of open spaces or leaving a safe place, which is agoraphobia. Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder where the person fears situations in which escape might be difficult or help unavailable, often leading to avoidance of outdoor places, crowds, public transport, or even leaving home. It centers on the anxiety about being trapped outside a familiar safe space rather than about the space itself being small or large. By contrast, claustrophobia is the fear of confined spaces, hydrophobia is an old term for fear of water (rabies), and xenophobia refers to fear or distrust of strangers or foreigners, not a fear of being outside or away from safety.

This item tests recognizing a phobia defined by fear of open spaces or leaving a safe place, which is agoraphobia. Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder where the person fears situations in which escape might be difficult or help unavailable, often leading to avoidance of outdoor places, crowds, public transport, or even leaving home. It centers on the anxiety about being trapped outside a familiar safe space rather than about the space itself being small or large. By contrast, claustrophobia is the fear of confined spaces, hydrophobia is an old term for fear of water (rabies), and xenophobia refers to fear or distrust of strangers or foreigners, not a fear of being outside or away from safety.