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Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry
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Needle Phobia in Children: A Discussion of Aetiology and Treatment Options

Hessel Willemsen

Tavistock Clinic, UK

Uttom Chowdhury

Bedfordshire and Luton Community NHS Trust, UK

Louise Briscall

Kingston Primary Care Trust, UK

In this article we review the current literature surrounding needle phobia, concentrating on clinical symptoms, aetiology and treatment options. Clinical symptoms include sudden increase in heart rate and blood pressure on exposure to needles followed by an immediate slowing of the heart and decrease in blood pressure (vasovagal reflex). The various schools of thought surrounding aetiology of this condition include biological, psychological and psychodynamic theories. Treatment options vary from simple education and reassurance to medication and specific behavioural approaches. Consideration should be given to past trauma associated with the phobia and relevant family factors. Careful clinical assessment will not only identify the problem but will also help to indicate appropriate treatment options.

Key Words: behavioural therapy • needle phobia • psychotherapy • trauma • vasovagal reflex

Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry, Vol. 7, No. 4, 609-619 (2002)
DOI: 10.1177/1359104502007004012
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