- Definition: Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder characterized by an intense fear of places or situations where escape might be difficult or help might not be available in the event of a panic attack. This often includes open or public spaces, crowds, or uncontrolled social conditions. People with agoraphobia may go to great lengths to avoid these situations.
- Etymology and Origin: “Agoraphobia” comes from the Greek words “agora,” meaning “public square” or “assembly,” and “phobia,” meaning “fear.” The term was coined in the late 19th century to describe a condition where individuals fear and avoid public spaces or situations. The agora in ancient Greece was a central public space in city-states, which makes its use in this context relevant to the fear of open or crowded places.
Agoraphobia: Understanding the Fear of Open Spaces – Definition and Origin
