Nyctophobia: Understanding the Fear of the Dark

Ian C. Langtree - Writer/Editor for Disabled World (DW)
Published: 2010/10/28 - Updated: 2023/12/01
Publication Type: Informative
Category Topic: Phobias and Fears - Academic Publications

Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main

Synopsis: Being afraid of the dark is called Nyctophobia, a phobia characterized by an acute fear of the darkness or a dark environment. The fear of darkness or night has several non-clinical terminologies; lygophobia, scotophobia, or achluophobia.

Introduction

Nyctophobia, also known as the fear of the dark, is a specific phobia that involves an intense and irrational fear of darkness or nighttime environments. People with nyctophobia experience extreme anxiety and distress when exposed to darkness or even the thought of being in a dark place.

Main Content

Although rational fear of the dark is good for us, producing caution and alertness for the natural dangers of darkness, Nyctophobia is triggered by the mind's disfigured perception of what would or could happen when in a dark environment.

The fear of darkness is a psychologically-impacted feeling of being disposed from comfort to a fear-evoking state. The fear of darkness or night has several non-clinical terminologies - lygophobia, scotophobia and achluophobia.

If you have a phobia of the dark, you are likely to become nervous in any darkened environment. You may sleep with a night-light. You might be reluctant to go out at night. You will likely experience an increased heart rate, sweat, shake and even feel ill when forced to spend time in the dark.

Nyctophobia is often accompanied by breathlessness, excessive sweating, nausea, shaking and sense of detachment from reality. Often times this fear is carried into late childhood and adulthood.

Although Nyctophobia is a phobia generally related to children but, according to J. Adrian Williams' article titled, Indirect Hypnotic Therapy of Nyctophobia: A Case Report, many clinics with pediatric patients have a great chance of having adults who have nyctophobia. The same article states that "the phobia has been known to be extremely disruptive to adult patients and incapacitating."

Most people retain a bit of a fear of the dark throughout life. This fear may be evolutionary in nature, as many predators hunt at night. Consequently, darkness is a frequently used element in horror movies and Halloween events.

Fear Of The Dark Treatment

Treatment with anxiety medication is often recommended for cases where frequent panic attacks and lose of sleep occur. Facing the "monster in the closet" is the best home therapy for children and adults. Someone who has a history of nyctophobia may also want to mention it before undergoing MRIs and other medical tests which involve being in dark environments.

Energy Psychology is emerging as an excellent therapy for fears and phobias because in studies it is shown to be rapid, safe, effective and long-lasting. It is based on a theory and practice that has been around for a couple of thousand years. It has the same foundation or roots as acupuncture, except in this case there are no needles used. You could call it emotional acupuncture - without the needles. Recent scientific studies have shown it to be very effective.

It's important to remember that seeking professional help from a mental health provider is crucial in addressing nyctophobia. They can provide a proper diagnosis, develop an appropriate treatment plan, and offer support throughout the process.

Author Credentials: Ian is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Disabled World, a leading resource for news and information on disability issues. With a global perspective shaped by years of travel and lived experience, Ian is a committed proponent of the Social Model of Disability-a transformative framework developed by disabled activists in the 1970s that emphasizes dismantling societal barriers rather than focusing solely on individual impairments. His work reflects a deep commitment to disability rights, accessibility, and social inclusion. To learn more about Ian's background, expertise, and accomplishments, visit his full biography.