Which age duration is specified for a child under 18 years of age with Specific Phobia?

In diagnosing Specific Phobia in a child under 18 years of age, the duration of the phobic response must be at least six months. This timeframe is essential because it allows for the identification of persistent patterns of fear, anxiety, or avoidance in specific situations or objects that are unreasonable or excessive. The six-month criterion helps differentiate a true phobic disorder from transient fears that are common in early development.

This specification also reflects the understanding that children often go through phases of fear, so the six-month duration ensures that the fear is not just a temporary developmental stage but rather indicative of a more significant anxiety issue that impacts the child's functioning and development. Thus, recognizing and validating this timeframe is critical for accurate diagnosis and subsequent treatment planning.