Linonophobia

Linonophobia (from Greek lino, "string") is the fear of strings. People with this fear might have experienced being tied up in the past, whether they were tied up because of a punishment especially as a child. Some might have developed this fear because of watching TV or movies showing people being tied up while their houses were being robbed, or being tied up when they were captured or kidnapped. This fear of strings could be associated with their fear of being restrained or restricted. For some, being tied with a rope is like being forced to do something that they do not like or is something that they could not escape.

Linonophobes usually have no problems wearing clothes, but shoes with laces may be a problem and they may prefer leather and slip on shoes. Clothes with buttons are not a problem as well but those with strings are avoided. Symptoms of linonophobia include shortness of breath, tremors, nausea, fainting, loss of control, sweating, increased heart rate, and urge to flee.

Therapy sessions are valuable to all who suffer from string phobias. Educating them about their fears can help reduce the anxiety and improve responses to therapy.