"...I can't be near a car or any intense light source"

LOS ANGELES—A recent study has unveiled a strange phenomenon among adolescents – a soaring increase in flashlight phobia, primarily attributed to their car-loving fathers. This surge in phobia, with an astounding 946.89% rise, has left both experts and parents baffled.

Flashlight phobia, also known as selaphobia, is characterized by an irrational fear of light, particularly flashlights and intense beams. It can manifest as anxiety, panic attacks, and discomfort when exposed to bright lights. The study, conducted by the Institute of Psychological Research, delved into the root causes behind this extraordinary surge in cases among adolescents.

Dr. Emily Turner, a renowned psychologist and the lead researcher of the study, shared her insights: "We were astounded by the unprecedented spike in selaphobia cases among adolescents. After extensive research and interviews, it became apparent that car-loving fathers played a pivotal role in triggering the fear because they are never happy with how anyone but them holds a flashlight."

Car enthusiasts are known for their fervent dedication to their vehicles, often spending hours modifying a car that spends most of its time on jackstands. It appears that this passion is being passed down to the next generation but with an unintended consequence. The adolescents surveyed in the study recounted tales of their fathers telling them to, "Hold it right!" over and over again.

One participant, 17-year-old Lily Richardson, shared her experience: "My dad is obsessed with his car. He would use this incredibly bright flashlight but never hold it himself. He made me hold it and I was never good enough. I started feeling incredibly uncomfortable around any source of intense light, even regular flashlights."

Another teenager, Mark Stevens, revealed the anxiety he felt: "I developed this overwhelming fear of bright lights. It's like they're piercing through my soul. I can't be near a car or any intense light source without thinking of my dad."

While the link between car-loving fathers and selaphobia is a recent discovery, it has prompted discussions on the unintended consequences of parental hobbies and interests on their children. The study also emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balance between personal passions and parenting, ensuring that the next generation does not inherit unexpected phobias from their car-loving parents.