Local NewsWatercooler

Actions

Fear of clowns is not uncommon and it has a name

Posted
and last updated

If you are scared of clowns, you are not the only one.

In fact, there's a name for it ... coulrophobia. It means "fear of clowns" and it is actually quite common.

Psychologist say its mostly due to the elusive nature of their appearance. Because clowns conceal their identity with makeup, they create uncertainty. It's similar to when children are afraid of sports mascots or characters with masks.

Experts say that it you know someone who is scared of clowns or you are scared of them, it is best not to force exposure to them.