ABSTRACT
According to a number of studies, the prevalence of varying degrees of fear of flying is estimated at 1 ~0 per cent of the general population in industrialised countries (Agras et al., 1969; Arnarson, 1987; Arrindell, 1980; Dean and Whitaker, 1982; Ekeberg, 1991; Nordlund, 1983). Individuals affected by fear of flying can be divided into three groups: those who do not fly at all, those who restrict flying to an absolute minimum and experience considerable discomfort prior and/or during each flight, and those who show continuous mild or moderate apprehension about flying but do not avoid it, although it remains an unpleasant experience (Ekeberg et al., 1989). Fear of flying, whether experienced to a mild, moderate or high degree, usually affects functioning in one or more areas oflife, e.g., professional life, social life and family life (van Gerwen, 1988). It may also affect marital or relationship satisfaction because of the fact that fear of flying hampers or restricts the partner's freedom of movement.
