The most popular phobias

Whether it's fear of that big spider in the bathroom or anxiety related to giving a speech at a relative's wedding, we all feel afraid sometimes. Fear is an ancient emotion designed to warn of potential danger -- fear causes extra caution, preparation, and sometimes even avoidance of the situation altogether. But although most of the "scary" situations we face in today's world are not life threatening, that doesn't mean they aren't well-founded or don't serve us a useful purpose.

For example, being afraid of that spider in the bathroom is actually an instinctual and learned response to the fact that some spiders are poisonous. But unfortunately, most of us can't just "turn if off," and I still think spiders are creepy and scary -- even when I get a good look at one and realize it's not the dangerous kind.

Snakes and spiders are a big one when it comes to the most commonly shared fears, but some other common causes of anxiety are public speaking, heights, and closed or tight spaces. I don't personally have any actual phobias, although I am afraid -- to some extent -- in most of the situations on the list!