Prevalence of Pistanthro-Phobia among Adults: Role of Gender, Socio-Economic Status and Living Style

Abstract

Trust is not just a notion; it also implies openness, emotional investment, and the risk of suffering in hopes of forming a deeper connection with someone. However, when this central ability is undermined by betrayals, deceits, and other forms of repeated relational violations, individuals can develop fears that extend far beyond typical defensiveness and develop what we may conceptualize as pathological mistrust. The current study was carried out to check the prevalence of Pistanthro-Phobia among adults and also determine to highlight the role of gender, socio-economic status and the living style. For this purpose, a sample of (N=765) was selected and data was collected by using convenient sampling method. This was a quantitative study with cross-sectional research design. A valid and reliable scale of Pistanthro-Phobia developed by Naz and Khan (2025) was used to check the prevalence of Pistanthro-Phobia. The results showed overall higher prevalence of Pistanthro-Phobia among adults. The findings also reported a significant role of gender, socio-economic status and living style in relation with the level of Pistanthro-Phobia among adults. On the basis of the findings this is suggested that as in this study the adults reported higher level of Pistanthro-Phobia in different facets of the scale, so there is a dire need to address this issue by providing them the treatment or lunching different curative programs to restore their mental wellbeing and quality of life.