Clowns are not only harmless, but even funny. Nevertheless, there are many children and even adults who are afraid of them. A panic attack can be caused not only by a person in a clown costume, but also by a doll depicting him.
Why people are afraid of clowns: understand the reason for your fear
Treatments for courophobia, i.e. obsessive fear of clowns will depend on the reasons that caused such a problem. More often than not, people are afraid of what lies behind the makeup. The mask hides the real face of the clown, and this is alarming. It is impossible to guess what emotions a person experiences in such makeup, since a smile is always painted on his face, moreover, an unnatural and even frightening one.
It is important to try watching films and performances by professionals in order to understand that behind the makeup is an ordinary person - friendly and not at all dangerous.
The second problem is that clowns behave in an unpredictable and unnatural manner. This is especially often frightening children: they are not used to the fact that an adult does obvious stupid things. Frightening gestures and antics can resemble the behavior of a mentally unhealthy person, and this, naturally, causes fear and acute hostility. In this case, communication with a representative of such a profession can help when he leaves his role.
Clowns during performances can pester the audience, taunt them, or do unpleasant tricks to amuse the audience. The fear of becoming a victim of such ridicule feeds courophobia. In this case, it is important to refuse to visit places where clowns are, and also not to invite such people to events.
Fighting Coulrophobia: Basic Techniques
An interesting option can be a costume party, at which someone from the people you love and trust will try to dress up as a clown and make up. Remind yourself constantly that you are dealing with someone close to you, that you have nothing to fear. You can even do the makeup yourself, while focusing only on positive emotions. Try to transfer the feelings you have for your loved one to clowns in general.
Do not watch programs with scary clowns, and even more so horror films with their participation. You should also abandon such books and comics. Otherwise, the effort will be in vain.
In difficult cases, it is necessary to seek help from a psychologist. In this case, several effective methods can be used: for example, a professional can "rewrite" unpleasant memories for you, making them less traumatic. After a course of treatment with a specialist, you can get rid of the fear of clowns.
