Good news: Study by University of Graz could help phobics overcome over their fear of spiders
Last updated 7/7/2010 2:37:05 PM
Study could help phobics overcome over their fear of spiders
For some, just the mere sight of eight legs sends shivers down their spine and has them shrieking at the tops of their voices. Now a university study is seeking girls with a phobia of spiders for a project which could help ease their fears long term.
The research by the University of Graz in Austria will consider how the young volunteers' fears affect the processes of the brain."
Spiders provoke revulsion for many people and even set off fearful panic," explained the university. "Girls in particular are frequently affected. The researchers are looking for girls aged between 8-13 years who are very fearful of spiders and/or who feel sick at the sight of them."
The girls who take part in the study will be shown pictures of the insects and their brainwaves will be closely monitored. They will also undergo fear therapy with specialists.
It's the hope of researchers that the study will help in the development of effective phobia treatments.
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