Overprediction of fear in panic disorder with agoraphobia.

The overprediction of fear model is discussed in relation to the development and maintenance of panic disorder with agoraphobia. Data are presented which demonstrate a significant relationship between self-reports of phobic avoidance and anticipation of panic, both before and after treatment, and the occurrence of panic. Implications of the overprediction model for exposure-based therapy are also discussed along with its limitations and some directions for future research.