I'm a new member of this group. My biggest phobia has always been
balloons. Not the actual balloon itself, but the perpetual fear of
them popping. If they're just sitting there and it's quite probable
that they won't pop, then I'm ok with it. But if someone's blowing
them up (whether by mouth or machine), playing with them, etc....I
panic. I've dealt with this phobia most of my life, so by this point
(i'm 23 now), I've learned to be pretty discreet about it. I usually
saunter off to the bathroom or something and stick in the earplugs
lol (in case they do pop...then it won't be so loud). My balloon
popping phobia is pretty generalized...meaning, I'm often bothered
by most loud abrupt noises. (i.e gunshots, car backfiring, loud
clapping thunder, fireworks that I don't know are around). Luckily I
can enjoy fireworks ok now..AS LONG AS I CAN EXPECT IT (for
instance, a July 4th fireworks display is fine if I'm sitting right
there). Ive also grown pretty fond of thunderstorms..as long as it
doesnt get too noisy.
My 2nd phobia (not as severe as the balloons) is of polo shirts. Not
sure if it's the button issue, since I am pretty disgusted by most
buttons, or if it's just a fashion hang up. The collars on polo
shirts drive me absolutely bat-sh*t! Polos w/ zippers aren't TOO
bad. Large buttons are pretty revolting as well, esp on cardigans
and duffel coats...YUCK!