Gamophobia
Gamophobia is a fear of marriage and commitment. It is characterized by feelings of excessive and persistent fear of being in a relationship, making a commitment, or getting married. It can make it difficult to form relationships with other people and interfere with a person’s ability to function normally in their daily life.
“Gamos” is the Greek word for marriage. “Phobos” (phobia) means fear.
Like other types of phobias, gamophobia is marked by fear that is out of proportion to the actual danger or threat. Such symptoms are persistent and last for six months or longer.
Signs and Symptoms of Gamophobia
Gamophobia is more than just being cautious or somewhat hesitant about making a big commitment. People who have this condition experience intense fear when faced with the reality or even sometimes just the thought of being in a committed relationship or marriage.
Some symptoms that a person might experience include immediate feelings of anxiety, fear, or panic. It is also common for people to take steps to avoid committing such as distancing themselves from others, breaking up with the person they are dating, or avoiding dating.
People also often experience physical symptoms such as:
- Chest pain
- Choking sensations
- Dizziness
- Feelings of impending doom
- Hyperventilating
- Rapid heart rates of breath
- Sweating
- Trembling
People who have this condition are often capable of getting into relationships, but when things start to become serious, they often begin to exhibit signs of fear and anxiety. In other cases, some people are so afraid of commitment that they will avoid relationships altogether.
