The biological model proposed by Klein was evaluated. It was argued that agoraphobia is not invariably preceded by panic attacks, and Klein's observations may have been restricted to severe cases. Furthermore, there is a need to determine why some individuals who suffer from panic do not develop agoraphobia. The limitations of the basic premises concerning panic and anxiety, dependency needs, and separation anxiety are discussed. A comprehensive model of agoraphobia must consider the interaction between biological dysfunction and cognitive processes. In addition, several diagnostic groups should be compared to clarify which factors are specific to agoraphobia.
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