Basophobia: A case report highlighting potential genetic vulnerability

Asian J Psychiatr. 2026 Jan:115:104791. doi: 10.1016/j.ajp.2025.104791. Epub 2025 Nov 24.

Abstract

Basophobia, or space phobia, represents a rare form of specific phobia characterized by excessive fear of falling in open spaces without visible support. While familial aggregation has been documented in specific phobia generally, there are no previous reports documenting family clustering in basophobia specifically. We report the case of a 57-year-old woman who developed basophobia following a minor fall, with the notable finding of similar complaints in 30-year-old son. This case represents the first documented familial aggregation of basophobia and raises important questions about genetic vulnerability factors in this specific phobic subtype.

Keywords: Basophobia; Fear of falling; Genetic predisposition; Specific phobia.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Letter

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Phobic Disorders* / genetics

Supplementary concepts

  • Phobia, Specific