Trypophobia Research

Studies have found that for an individual with trypophobia, the aversion to the sight of irregular patterns or clusters of small holes or bumps can be instantaneous, intense, and disproportionately strong. The visual reaction results in uncontrollable fears, disgust, or both. According to the NIH, future studies and case reports are needed in order to determine the limit or boundary between trypophobic discomfort as an aversive response and trypophobia as a clinically valid anxiety disorder. Specific underlying causes for the condition have not yet been identified although there are several theories. So far it has not been recognized as a mental disorder in the DSM-5 statistical manual of mental disorders. It is being recognized as a specific type of phobia.