12-year old susie is afraid of the dark. her fear began when she was a small child but has not gone away with age. susie has sought professional help to overcome this paralyzing fear but to little avail. when the room is dark, she is reminded of the frightening stories her mother used to tell her as a child. susie does not like to have her friends come to stay overnight because they will find out about her infantile fear. each time susie attempts to sleep in the dark, she plans it days ahead, but then she is anxious and agitated until the moment arrives. she realizes her fears are irrational but seemingly cannot help her behavior.

Susie's fear of the dark is a phobia, which is an anxiety disorder. Comparatively, Harriet's depression and Frank's fears showcase different aspects of mental health responses to fear or stress, while night terrors are a distinct sleep disorder.

Explanation:

12-year old Susie's fear of the dark is an example of a specific phobia, which is a type of anxiety disorder. This can affect both children and adults, causing intense fear about a particular object or situation. Susie’s fear seems irrational to her, and despite trying, she can't overcome it on her own. Professional intervention, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can be effective in treating phobias. Susie’s story has parallels with the character Harriet, who experiences depression during the winter months and with Frank, who has various fears including one specific fear of mice. Sylvia, from another excerpt, appears more at peace with solitude and the natural world. These vignettes all illustrate different reactions to fear or stress.

It's important for individuals like Susie who are suffering to seek continued professional guidance to effectively manage and potentially overcome their fears. Understanding how the brain responds to perceived threats, the role of past experiences in shaping fears, and learning techniques to cope with anxiety can help individuals lead a more comfortable life, even when facing potential triggers for their fears.

Night Terror:

The term 'night terror' refers to a sleep disorder which is quite different from Susie's phobia. While both are disturbing, a night terror is characterized by panic and sometimes aggressive actions during sleep, typically without recollection of the incident upon waking. Susie's experience, on the other hand, involves a conscious experience of fear.