Which term refers specifically to a persistent and irrational fear of a specific object or situation?

The term that describes a persistent and irrational fear of a specific object or situation is phobia. Phobias are characterized by an overwhelming and debilitating anxiety triggered by the presence or thought of a particular item or scenario, such as heights, spiders, flying, or crowds. This fear often leads individuals to avoid the feared object or situation, which can significantly interfere with daily functioning and quality of life.

In contrast, social anxiety relates to the fear of social situations where one might be judged or scrutinized, affecting interactions with others rather than focusing on a specific object or scenario. Panic disorder involves recurrent panic attacks and the fear of experiencing more attacks, while stress disorder encompasses a broader category of anxiety responses, mainly concerned with traumatic events. These distinctions highlight why phobia is the most precise term for this type of fear.