The fear behind all fears is that we are afraid that we will not be able to ________ that will arise if we face a particular fear.

The fear behind all fears is that we are afraid that we will not be able to ________ that will arise if we face a particular fear.

• A. Handle the Feelings
• B. Handle the Situation
• C. Avoid It
• D. Ignore It

Answer: (A)

Facing a fear often brings a surge of intense feelings, and the real concern is whether we can stay with and manage those feelings. The statement points to emotional regulation—the worry that we won’t be able to handle the feelings that show up when we confront something feared. If we can handle those emotions, we can proceed or endure the situation despite the distress, rather than letting the emotion drive avoidance, avoidance of the situation, or ignoring what’s happening. In practice, building the ability to handle the feelings includes skills like labeling the emotion, using grounding techniques, slow breathing, and seeking support, all of which help maintain coping when fear arises.

Facing a fear often brings a surge of intense feelings, and the real concern is whether we can stay with and manage those feelings. The statement points to emotional regulation—the worry that we won’t be able to handle the feelings that show up when we confront something feared. If we can handle those emotions, we can proceed or endure the situation despite the distress, rather than letting the emotion drive avoidance, avoidance of the situation, or ignoring what’s happening. In practice, building the ability to handle the feelings includes skills like labeling the emotion, using grounding techniques, slow breathing, and seeking support, all of which help maintain coping when fear arises.