What term describes a person with an irrational fear of snakes?

The term that describes a person with an irrational fear of snakes is specific phobia. A specific phobia is defined as an intense, excessive fear of a specific object or situation, which in this case is snakes. Individuals with a specific phobia often go to great lengths to avoid the feared object or situation, and their anxiety can be triggered even by the thought of the object.

This term indicates that the fear is focused on a particular entity (snakes) and can include physical symptoms such as sweating, increased heart rate, or even panic attacks when confronted with the phobic stimulus. Specific phobias are common and can significantly impact a person's daily life, as the fear is disproportionate to the actual threat posed by the object.

In contrast, the other options refer to different psychological conditions. Social Anxiety Disorder involves an intense fear of social situations and being judged or embarrassed by others. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions). Panic Disorder involves recurrent, unexpected panic attacks and a persistent concern about having more attacks. Each of these conditions has distinct features that differentiate them from specific phobia.