How can we learn to control or overcome our fears and phobias? Learning World explores some of the educational methods that have proven to be effective in tackling anxieties. <br /><br />Seeking psychological treatment to overcome what others might regard as irrational fears is common, but experts have developed practical educational techniques. We focus on three of these on this programme. <br /><br />The first report is from Romania where we meet a young girl who has learned how to deal with her demons through creative play and games. Maria has received help from a method that involves helping her transform scary monsters into friendly faces. <br /><br />Dispelling fears through familiarity is also a theme emerging in our second story from Portugal. A hospital in the north of the country regularly runs workshops for pre-school children to help them conquer their wariness of doctors, nurses and anyone in a white coat. The kids take part in a simulated operation, getting first hand experience of a surgical theatre
