5 Tech Phobias You Never Knew Existed

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5 Tech Phobias You Never Knew Existed

Spiderphobia
Nomophobia, the fear of losing your mobile device, is one of many new technology-induced phobias that have come about.
Image: Mashable Composite, Getty Creative, issumbosi , Ratsanai , Zoonar RF

When we hear the word “phobia,” we think of a fear of spiders, heights or flying. But phobic reactions can be triggered by just about anything — even computers and phones.

With the widespread use of technology, names for these tech-induced fears and anxieties have long circulated the web. However, the mental health care diagnostic manual, DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition), does not list out particular phobias. In fact, patients are only technically diagnosed as having a “specific phobia” paired with one of five categories: animal, blood-injection-injury, natural environment, situational or other.

Although tech phobias do not have official clinical terms, they can still exist. “There is no question that some individuals are fearful of technology or of particular gadgets for various reasons,” Canada-based professor, researcher and phobia specialist Dr. Martin Antony tells Mashable. He says any of these tech phobias might be diagnosed as “specific phobia.”

Despite the fact that tech phobias might exist, we shouldn’t expect clinical diagnoses anytime soon. There’s very little data in scientific literature about tech-related phobias and anxieties, says Dr. Marla Deibler, psychologist and executive director at The Center of Emotional Health Philadelphia.

Here’s a list of five real tech phobias that have yet to hit textbooks.

1. Technophobia: fear of technology

Technophobia is the granddaddy of them all. The broad phrase first gained recognition during the Industrial Revolution, and has continued to evolve.

The term is defined as “the abnormal fear or anxiety about the effects of technology.” People or groups who feel uncomfortable or anxious around advanced technology can also be considered “technophobes.”

2. Nomophobia: fear of being without a mobile device

I’m so used to not having a phone, I’m nomophobia freeeee

— @cynsxxxJuly 27, 2014

If you’re a cellphone addict, this phobia may resonate with you. Nomophobia (“nomo” is short for “no-mobile”) was coined in a 2008 study by the UK Post Office and has been brought to light in popular media.

“Recent discussion has questioned the disruption to one’s functioning [a cellphone] may cause when an individual experiences distress when unable to access their mobile device, or even the distress associated with catastrophic ‘what if’ thoughts regarding the potential for losing contact with his or her device,” Deibler says.

This phobia generates panic or feelings of anxiety when your phone isn’t available. Specific fears include losing reception, running out of precious battery power and, worst of all, losing your phone.

3. Cyberphobia: fear of computers

I’m scared of my computer now (cyberphobia). Mostly because every time I go on, there is at least 10 hours of work waiting for me. #tiring

— @JustJuliHelmsAugust 1, 2011

Believe it or not, some people have an irrational fear of computers or working on computers. Symptoms of cyberphobia, a form of technophobia, include feeling anxious or paranoid with anything computer-related.

Like many phobias, cyberphobia can come in different forms and can range from people who believe computers are invasive to those who are active in anti-technology social movements.

4. Telephonophobia: fear of telephones

This isn’t a fear of the phone itself, but instead a fear of answering and receiving calls. It’s very similar to glossophia, the fear of public speaking. The ring of the phone can make people feel intimidated, and in some cases cause hyperventilation or panic attacks.

Deibler says this may be better described as social anxiety disorder, since it is typically related to a fear of being criticized or appearing foolish.

5. Selfiephobia: fear of taking a photograph of oneself

Convinced that Fear of the Selfie is a real and diagnosable thing. #selfie #selfiephobia so i am trying to overcome.

— @melaniegoerlitzJune 9, 2014

With the popularity of selfies, it’s no surprise “selfiephobia” has become widely used. Although it has not been verified by professionals, the term has been floating around the Internet.

There are various reasons as to why people are selfiephobic. Some may not think they are photogenic, while others may see it as a cry for attention or a superficial act. NPR suggested a few present-day phobias, and selfiephobic was first on its list.

Tech phobias

Image: Mashable, Isar Chang

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