Haphephobia

A relatively rare (and very real) phobia characterized by an irrational fear of physical contact. People with haphephobia tend to recoil in fear when someone touches them, especially without consent. It doesn't seem horrible, but it's just like all phobias: You don't know how serious it is unless you have one.

There are two major differences that can be used to distinguish between haphephobia and someone who is just very jumpy:

1. Jumping out of your skin because a stranger randomly touched you is normal. Nearly having a heart attack because a close friend or family member accidentally brushed against you is NOT normal.

2. Remember that it's IRRATIONAL. Being receptive to touch because you suffer from allodynia or some other form of skin sensitivity is perfectly normal. But if it happens for seemingly no reason and you know it; THAT is not normal.

"Hey guys. This is my little brother, Steven."

"Aww, he's so cute!"

"Wait -- don't touch him, he-"

"AAAAHHH!"

"...He has haphephobia."

by Ubeenbamboozledson December 23, 2021

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