What is cacophobia definition?

Cacophobia is a type of specific phobia that is characterized by an irrational and persistent fear of ugly, unattractive or repulsive things such as dirt, filth, deformities, disfigurement, or illness. This fear is often accompanied by strong feelings of anxiety, dread, panic, and avoidance behaviors. People with cacophobia may feel embarrassed or ashamed of their fear and may go to great lengths to avoid encountering the trigger. This condition can severely impact an individual's quality of life and can lead to social isolation and depression if left untreated. Treatment options include cognitive-behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, and medication.