Bibliophobia

Bibliophobia is the fear or hatred of books. This phobia is usually confined to certain book themes, like about witchcraft. People with learning disabilities like dyslexia commonly suffer from this phobia. Unlike most phobias, bibliophobia is not an irrational fear. In some cases, this phobia is not directly connected to the fear of reading aloud in school or work.

Causes
Like most phobias, bibliophobia is triggered by a past negative experience, like from early childhood. Some people with learning disabilities can have hard time reading books, ever aloud or silently, triggering fear of reading.

An example of the other cause of this phobia is reading about evil or frightening stuff, such as witchcraft.

Symptoms
People who are bibliophobic often find it very difficult or are unable to read books. Being forced to read may make sufferers cry or even panic. Symptoms of bibliophobia include confusion, sweating, shaking, rapid breathing, rapid heartrate, and inability to think straight.

Treatment
A traditional method of treatment by mental health professionals is identifying the causes of the phobia, and then patient and doctor will work together to cope with fear by first reading in the office, and then alone at home.

Desensitization therapy is another effective treatment method of bibliophobia. This involves gradually gluing them to books, helping to overcome fear by increasing confidence about books.