[Therapy of fear of flying]

Abstract

Fear of flying is a widespread phenomenon and therefore, there is no clear-cut borderline between "normal" and "pathological" fear. People who seek help are those whose lives are severely affected by their avoidance behaviour. Fear of flying can be treated, and in particular, procedures for coping with fear, as developed in behavioural therapy are employed in the course of treatment. 'Systematic desensitization' is particularly suitable for dealing with specific flying phobia. 'Exposure according to the reaction management model' is indicated in the case of patients in whom fear of flying is an expression of panic attacks. A variety of pharmacological therapy measures are available which aim at influencing the vegetative reaction to phobic situations (benzodiazepine, antidepressants, beta-blockers). However, the effectiveness of such medications is subject to controversy.