What causes a fear of mirrors?

What causes a fear of mirrors?

Many healthcare providers agree that genetics and your environment can increase your risk:

• Genetics: A family history of mood disorders means you may carry genes that cause phobias.
• Environment: If you experience emotional trauma related to mirrors, you may be more likely to develop a phobia of them. Some people have bad experiences with mirrors because of scary movies or mirror-based attractions at carnivals.

Cultural beliefs may also play a role in eisoptrophobia. Many cultures believe that the souls of deceased loved ones travel through or get trapped in mirrors. This is why mirrors are often covered or turned away when a family is in mourning.