Science / phobias The Most Common Phobias Don't like spiders and snakes? Join the club! By Marie Morris, Newser Staff Posted Oct 31, 2009 3:07 PM CDT Copied Keeper John Mostyn lets a diamond python wrap itself around his head at Sydney Wildlife World, Oct. 1, 2009. (AP Photo) In honor of Halloween, LiveScience reveals the most common phobias. If you still need a costume, you'll scare the most people by playing on their evolutionarily sensible fear of creatures with venomous fangs. The top terrors: Snakes Spiders and other "creepy crawlies" Places that are difficult to escape, such as elevators Other people Heights The dark Bad weather, especially thunder and lightning Flying Dogs The dentist (More phobias stories.) Report an error