Which term refers to a persistent and irrational fear of spiders?

• A. Arachnophobia
• B. Acrophobia
• C. Agoraphobia
• D. Anxiety disorders

Answer: (A)

Specific phobias are enduring, irrational fears of a particular object or situation that lead to avoidance and distress. For spiders, the established term is arachnophobia, combining the Greek roots for spider and fear. This name fits the pattern of a specific phobia precisely, signaling a persistent fear that is out of proportion to the actual danger posed by spiders and often causes avoidance behaviors. In contrast, acrophobia refers to a fear of heights, agoraphobia to fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult, and anxiety disorders is a broad category that includes various anxiety-related conditions, not the specific fear of spiders.