DNA Repair

body-is the subject of the next few chapters. The primitive fear response, once a survival mechanism for confronting genuine physical danger, is inappropriate for the relatively innocuous physical challenges we encounter today. The panic reaction, which sets our adrenalin pumping, may be a "protective mechanism gone wrong." Agras also contends that the "old brain," the septo-hippocampal region, may be overly sensitive in some individuals, thus predisposing them toward panic. A comprehensible introduction to neurons, neurotransmitters, and receptor sites correlates physiology with behavior; in a similarly non-esoteric manner, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, and GABA are described. The second half of the book begins with the pioneer attempts at finding a cure. Both successes and failures are documented, vivifying the laborious and lengthy time course of the experiments involved. Numerous therapies and psychological theories are discussed, but the emphasis is on exposure therapy through systematic desensitization to the phobia-producing stimulus. Pharmacologic endeavors are discussed next, though with less definitive conclusions. The last two chapters discuss the psychological aspects of dealing with phobias: support for the victim and facing fear. While mentioning the obvious role of the family as a support system, Agras also alludes to the reverse situation-how some marriages, for example, actually perpetuate the phobia through the spouse's thriving on the phobic's dependency. The book ends on an optimistic note, summarizing the outlook for cure and preventions. As a closing thought, it discusses the changing role of women in the workplace, and how that trend may literally force female phobics out of their fears. This book is written primarily for the lay person, but it is recommended for the psychologist, for the general physician who would otherwise not be exposed to anxiety disorders, and, of course, for phobics and their families. It provides a general but accurate picture of the current progress in panic research, is up to date, and contains suggested references for supplementary reading.