Autophobia, also called monophobia, isolophobia, or eremophobia, is the specific phobia of isolation; a morbid fear of being egotistical, or a dread of being alone or isolated.[1] Sufferers need not be physically alone, but just to believe that they are ignored or unloved. Contrary to what would be inferred by a literal reading of the term, autophobia does not describe a "fear of oneself"[2] nor is it the fear of automobiles (despite various cultures abbreviating automobile to "auto"). It typically develops from and is associated with other anxiety disorders.[3]

Autophobia can be associated with or accompanied by other phobias, such as agoraphobia, and is generally considered part of the agoraphobic cluster, meaning that it has many of the same characteristics as certain anxiety disorders and hyperventilation disorders. The main concern of people with phobias in the agoraphobic cluster is their ability to get help in case of emergency. This often makes them afraid of going out in public, being caught in crowds, being alone, or being stranded.[4]

Autophobia is not to be confused with agoraphobia (fear of being in public or being caught in crowds), self-hatred, or social anxiety, although it can be closely related to them. It is a distinct phobia that tends to be accompanied by other anxiety disorders and phobias.

1. Leaving Home Part One

Matthew Thomason

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