Workplace phobia is not primarily defined by its symptoms´
quality, but by the quality of the stimulus, the severity of the
subjectively perceived domain-specific work-anxiety symptom
load, as well as the resulting work participation disorders
often occurring as long-term sick leave. Workplace
phobia therefore requires special diagnostic and therapeutic
attention, and a specific symptom and competency-focusing
treatment instead of purely “sick leave” certification.
Further research should consider the development and
evaluation of work-directed therapy approaches and their
role for durable professional reintegration. Furthermore,
workplace-related anxiety and workplace phobia should be
investigated in other clinical populations. Finally, different
professional settings and the working population should be
investigated for epidemiologic findings.